If a person is diagnosed with diverticulosis they have pockets that
appear on the inside of the colon. In severe cases, these can actually
push through to the outer part of the colon. When only one pocket is
found, it is called a diverticulum. If there is more than one then they
are called diverticula.
Diverticulosis colon
There is a similar affliction called diverticulitis. It is common among
those who also suffer from diverticulosis. One person in four who has
diverticulosis also gets diverticulitis. Any time the diverticulum gets
irritated, and then diverticulitis is likely to follow.
What Can Cause Diverticulosis?
It's probable that a lack of fibrous food in the diet is one of the
causes of diverticulosis, but this has not been definitively proven by
medical research. It's interesting - and probably relevant - that
diverticulosis became an increasing issue for adults in America
beginning in the early nineteen hundreds. This is probably because of
the switch from fresh foods to foods that were prepackaged. Processing
can remove the natural fiber found in most food types. Those who eat a
great deal of ready made dinners or fast foods tend to have
diverticulosis much more frequently than those who eat mostly fresh
unprocessed foods.
There is many fewer cases of diverticulosis in undeveloped countries
where the majority of the population eats fresh foods. In continents
such as Africa and Asia, diverticulosis is practically unknown.
The Symptoms of Diverticulosis
For the most part, people don't even know they have diverticulosis. The
symptoms are generally mild and easy to ignore. When symptoms do appear,
they might include
Slight Cramps
Bloated Feeling
Hard Stools
These indications can also be caused by a wide variety of issues related
to the stomach, which makes diverticulosis hard to diagnose. Physicians
need to do further tests to know for sure if the problem is
diverticulosis or another issue such as an ulcer or irritable bowel
syndrome.
How to Treat Diverticulosis
Simply eating healthier can help alleviate diverticulosis. Eating fresh
vegetables and grains that contain good quantities of fiber will
definitely make a difference. If the symptoms become more severe, a
physician may need to be consulted for further treatment.
Diverticulosis colon