The problem is actually created in the large intestine when diverticula form and become active in the colon. Small filled pouches form in weakened areas of muscle of the colon and these are known as diverticula; their presence is called diverticulosis. During the active periods, the condition is known as diverticular disease. These small pouches become inflamed and when they do diverticulitis symptoms can result in the process of the digestive disease.
Often with diverticulosis there are no symptoms that present themselves to identify the presence of any condition. Some of the symptoms that may be noticed are cramps, constipation and bloating. These symptoms present with a variety of different conditions and will not often immediately indicate this condition.
There are many specific symptoms associated with diverticulitis however; making its presence known. These symptoms may include pains that are sudden and very sharp located in the lower section of the abdomen and usually on the left side. The pain is known to continue to increase over several days. Touching the abdomen will also bring discomfort as it is tender. These symptoms seem to be worse late in the day.
There is the possibility of infection, so an elevated white count will be one sign accompanied by a fever in most cases. It is also possible for the white count to be elevated with no fever present. In most cases of infection there will be nausea and possible vomiting.
Bowel habits change and can take either direction at any time from day to day or moment to moment. They may switch between bouts of constipation and diarrhea during the same day. Cramping is a common symptom experienced with these bowel changes. The rate at which these particular symptoms present has a lot to do with how much infection is present.
There is only one cause suspected for this particular problem and it is due to increased pressure in the colon over time causing weakening of muscle. Once the weakening occurs, diverticula are able to develop and can trap material that cause infection and decrease blood flow that result in inflammation. At one time it was suspected that particular foods contributed to the problem, but this is no longer believed an issue.
It tends to appear in individuals over forty years of age. There are certain individuals that are in a higher risk category because of lifestyle behaviors and they do not have a sufficient intake of fiber, are overweight, and do not get enough exercise. There are no guarantees that any individual will not be affected, but following a few simple health rules can assist prevention.
If diagnosed, the initial treatment in most cases will be a liquid diet for a few days accompanied by antibiotics and rest; all of which is followed up with a diet higher in fiber. For more serious conditions treatment can result in surgery. There are three common types of surgery performed for this type of condition which include abscess drainage; done by use of a needle and ultrasound, bowel resection with colostomy; is done either for temporary or permanent relief in extreme cases of inflammation and primary bowel resection; sections of the diseased intestine are removed.
Several things can be changed in life now that may prevent these serious circumstances later and they are simple solutions available at home. Drinking plenty of water daily is one important item. When it becomes necessary to go to the bathroom, do not wait, just go. Find some form of exercise that can be done on a daily basis. Changes made in diet that are optional by increasing fiber intake now, may become crucial later.
For anybody that is stressed that they have symptoms of diverticulitis, then they need to look into this website. They have a lot of information that can help you learn the signs and diverticulitis symptoms.
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