Have you been diagnosed with diverticular disease? Here’s what you should know.
Diverticular disease is a condition that impacts the bowels. More specifically, it causes pockets known as diverticula to form in the colon. This is fairly common, especially as a person gets older. In some cases, the person may never experience any problems related to the diverticula. However, sometimes these pouches can become infected. This is known as diverticulitis. If you suspect that you might have diverticulosis, our team of Saint Thomas, VI, physicians can help.
What causes diverticulosis?
While we aren’t entirely sure what causes diverticulosis, we do recognize the impact that certain lifestyle factors and habits can have on a person’s overall risk for developing a diverticular disease such as:
- Being male
- Being obese or overweight
- Eating a low-fiber diet
- Eating fatty, processed foods and a diet high in red meat
- Smoking
- Not exercising regularly
- Increased NSAID use
What are the symptoms of diverticulosis?
Since this condition is just the presence of these pockets within the lining of the colon, you probably won’t experience any symptoms if you have diverticulosis. Most people don’t even realize that they have this condition unless they come into our Saint Thomas, VI, practice for a colonoscopy or another diagnostic procedure in which we find the pockets; however, if diverticulitis occurs (inflammation or infection in these pockets), a person is most likely to experience:
- Abdominal cramping and pain
- Abdominal tenderness
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rectal bleeding
Since these symptoms are similar to other GI conditions such as celiac disease or IBS, we know it isn’t always easy to tell the difference. This is where the team of physicians here at Paragon Surgical Center can provide you with the answers you’re looking for.
How is diverticulosis treated?
Again, this condition alone probably won’t cause you any distress and won’t require treatment. It’s a good idea that you are leading a healthy lifestyle to prevent diverticulosis from turning into diverticulitis. Some ways to do that are to quit smoking, get regular exercise, avoid red meat and processed foods, and incorporate more fiber into your diet.
If you do develop diverticulitis, you’ll need to see your doctor right away. Mild cases may simply be prescribed a round of antibiotics while more serious cases may require hospitalization.
If you have concerns about your colon health or if you’re dealing with a digestive disorder, the team at Paragon Surgical Center can provide you with the expert care you need. To schedule an appointment with our team of Saint Thomas, VI, physicians simply call (340) 715-7874.