subject: Colon Health and the Dangers of Diverticulitis [print this page] Colon Health and the Dangers of Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is acolon healthdisorder in which small pockets or sacs grow on the colon, causing inflammation and irritation. Doctors refer to such pouches (which may also grow on other organs), diverticula. A single pouch is called a diverticulum.
Diverticulitis vs. Diverticulosis
It's relatively common for these sacs to actually move and push out the area where the lining has been thinned on the colon. This condition is called diverticulosis. If pouches are pushing against the wall of the colon and have become inflamed or irritated, the condition is referred to as diverticulitis. Just about twenty five percent of those who get diverticulosis also get diverticulitis.
Medical researchers are unsure why this inflammation or irritation happens, even though it has been thoroughly researched. The main cause is assumed to be fecal matter or bacterium that is lodged in the sacs.
Both diverticulitis and diverticulosis are rare in third world countries. This is probably due to the fact that populations in the industrialized nations are not getting the proper dietary fiber.
Symptoms of Diverticulitis
Some of the common signs of diverticulitis are stomach aches, often including a pain in the left side of the abdomen. It's not uncommon for this discomfort to begin instantly without any warning. Other times, pain can increase gradually in the affected area. It can take a week for the pain to become severe.
Your physician will make a diagnosis based on these symptoms:
High temperature
Vomiting
Sick to the stomach
Whether you have cramps
Constipation
The more of these symptoms you have, the more severe your diverticulitis is likely to be.
When you have diverticulitis, you're also likely to experience the following:
Unusual bleeding
Infections for no reason
Torn tissue in your colon
When these symptoms begin to appear, it's best to make an appointment with your doctor. In some cases, you may need a surgical consultant to see if an operation will be needed to correct the problem.
If left untreated, these symptoms can become worse and can lead to other health conditions.
How to Treat Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis treatment varies, depending upon the severity of the case. Sometimes, all you need to do is drink a lot fluids. But at other times, an operation and a hospital stay may be necessary.
