Diverticulosis - symptoms and treatment

Diverticulosis is a condition describing bulging pouches usually found in the digestive tract 20 out of every hundred people might suffer from it. Doctors do not know what actually causes it. These small pouches often become inflamed or infected causing severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea and a change in bowel habits. This is called diverticulitis.

The pain associated with it can vary but is generally in the lower left side of your abdomen and it can be extremely severe and sometimes come on very suddenly. Other people may experience a mild pain that becomes worse over several days and fluctuates in intensity. Other symptoms range from bleeding from the rectum, frequent urination, bloating and vomiting.

Diverticulosis is caused when weak places in the colon give way under pressure causing pouches to protrude through the colon wall. Factors that may increase the pressure of your colon wall include aging or bad eating habits with years of eating refined carbohydrates such as white sugar, white flour and processed foods. Some scientists think prolonged use of aspirin or anti inflammatory tablets might be the cause. As we age the muscular wall of the colon often thickens causing a narrowing of the passageway. This increases pressure and makes it more difficult for waste to move through the colon. It is rare for people in countries where they eat high fibre diets to develop diverticulitis. In countries with very refined diets consumed the condition is becoming increasingly common sometimes even in the younger population in the absence of fresh fruit and vegetables and instead of eating a lot of fried or greasy foods.

Complications are rare but they do occur. An infected or inflamed pouch, for instance, may rupture, spilling intestinal waste into the abdomen and leading to inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity leading to a potentially fatal condition. This condition is a medical emergency and requires immediate care. Any changes in bowel habits should always be reported to your G.P. as it may require further investigation to rule out other conditions or a referral to a dietician.

Mild cases of diverticulitis can be treated with rest and changes in diet. Drinking plenty of water is vital to recovery. Without sufficient water the bowel contents dry up which can exacerbate the condition. A specific diet will need to be adhered to which will allow your colon to rest and heal. It is advisable to avoid refined carbohydrates and sugar, coffee, alcohol and tobacco as they can upset the gastric secretions and may impede the healing process. After the condition has cleared up gradually increase high fibre foods and reduce dairy products, chocolate and red meat.

Chewing food correctly is also important as this breaks the food down correctly facilitating correct digestion. Other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or urinary tract infection may show similar symptoms. Exercise regularly as this will stimulate muscle activity and digestion. A naturopath uses a holistic approach including diet, family history, stress and lifestyle. About half of the people with diverticulitis require hospitalisation and may go on oral or sometimes intravenous antibiotics. Recurring diverticulitis may require surgery.

Always consult your G.P. before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of the article are for informational purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. We acknowledge the contribution of all authors and researchers.

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