DIVERTICULITIS

DIVERTICULITIS

Diverticula are bulging and small pouches; they are formed in the linings of a digestive system, found most often in the lower part of the large intestine (colon).

Symptoms:

• Pain, which may be constant and persist for several days.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever.
• Abdominal tenderness.
• Constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea.

Risk factors:

• Aging: The incidence of diverticulitis increases with age.
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking
• Certain medications: Steroids, opiates and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen and naproxen).

Complication:

• An abscess, which occurs when pus collects in the pouch.
• A blockage in your colon or small intestine caused by scarring.
• An abnormal passageway (fistula) between sections of bowel or the bowel and bladder.
• Peritonitis, this occurs when the pouch is ruptures due to inflame or infected, spilling of intestinal contents in the abdominal cavity.

Diagnosis:

• Blood and urine tests
• Liver function tests
• Stool test
• CT scan

Treatment:

• Antibiotics, to treat infection.
• An over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen 

Prevention:

• Exercise regularly: Exercise promotes normal bowel function and reduces pressure inside your colon. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes on most days.
• Eat more fiber: High-fiber foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, soften waste material and help it pass more quickly through your colon. This reduces pressure inside your digestive tract.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Fiber works by absorbing water and increasing the soft, bulky waste in colon.

Inflammation, infection, small pouches, digestive tract.