Jane23
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 Posted: 01/24/06 - 19:14 Post subject: |
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Diverticular disease means that pockets have developed in a colon (Diverticulosis) and that these pockets got inflamed or infected (Diverticulitis) but this may not always be the case.
The main cause of this disease is thought to be diet low in fiber that a person has been practicing for years. Some people don’t even develop any symptoms but those who do may experience low-abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, and rarely rectal bleeding. A person with diverticula may even experience changes in bowel movements. Most of the symptoms are overlap with IBS’s symptoms, so these two conditions may be mistaken.
In mild cases of diverticulosis, a patient is treated with proper diet and may be given medications to relieve the symptoms. In mild cases of Diverticulitis (the inflammation), antibiotics are given, followed by dietary restrictions and possible stool softeners. In severe cases, hospitalization is needed followed by the same or similar but stricter treatment.
If complications develop, a patient may need to undergo a surgery.
I hope this helps! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask! |
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