Diverticulitis occurs when the diverticula, which are small pouches along the wall of the large intestine, become inflamed. A single pouch is called a diverticulum, while two or more are referred to as diverticula. For diverticulitis to develop, diverticulosis must first be present; this condition involves the formation of diverticula within the colon. Although diverticulosis can appear anywhere in the colon, it is most often found in the sigmoid colon, the S-shaped section located in the lower left part of the abdomen (from the patient's perspective, the side closest to the left hand).As people age, the likelihood of developing diverticulosis increases. With time, the colon walls tend to weaken, allowing diverticula to form. By the age of 80, most individuals have some form of diverticulosis. One significant factor that contributes to diverticulosis is increased pressure in the colon, often resulting from constipation and the straining needed to pass small, hard stools, reminiscent of "rabbit droppings."While many with diverticulosis experience few or no symptoms, some may notice mild discomfort, such as abdominal cramping and bloating. The presence of diverticulosis can lead to the inflammation and infection of these pouches, known as diverticulitis (the suffix "-itis" indicates inflammation). This condition can be quite serious, causing pain in the lower left abdomen, fever, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and, paradoxically, diarrhea and frequent urination. Severe complications like colon perforation and peritonitis are potential risks associated with diverticulitis.To prevent diverticulosis, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber is crucial. A fiber-rich diet helps maintain regular bowel movements, keeps pressure in the colon at normal levels, and reduces the formation of diverticula. Diverticulitis can be diagnosed through colon x-rays, sigmoidoscopy, or other imaging methods. Treatment focuses on addressing the inflammation and infection.
