Diverticulitis occurs when the bulging sacs from inside the wall of the colon or large intestine become inflamed or infected.
Diverticula are pouches that develop when pressure increases against the inside walls of the colon and pushes outward. They are most common in the colon and large intestine but can also be found anywhere in the digestive tract. Diverticula becomes diverticulitis when the sacs become inflamed or infected. Diverticulitis can cause a lot of pain.
Doctors aren’t completely sure what causes diverticulitis but they believe that a low-fiber diet might be part of the problem. Doctors also think that part of the reason why the diverticula can become infected is because of the bacteria that the stool contains. Fecal matter can become lodged into the diverticula which will mostly cause an infection of the sac. Due to a low-fiber diet the stool becomes hard and has less bulk to it which causes the colon to work harder in order to push the stool forward. The sacs are formed when they are continuously pushed on. All of this pressure from pushing will cause weak spots along the colon to form which are the diverticula.
Who is Most at Risk?
Many factors can add to the causes of diverticulitis. There are a handful of risks but these are the most common.
Age
Age plays a huge role in being at risk of developing diverticulitis. Before the age of 40, diverticulosis is uncommon. About one-third of all Americans will develop the condition by age 60, and two-thirds will have it by age 85. This statistic, according to Harvard Health Publications, makes diverticulosis one of the most common medical conditions in the United States.
Constipation
Constipation is most likely caused by not having enough fiber-rich foods in your diet. This will cause a person’s stool to become hard and small. This fiber lacking stool makes the colon work harder by contracting to make the stool move forward. This is how diverticula develop.
Diverticulitis Symptoms
Someone with diverticulitis can expect it to last a week or longer if they don’t get their symptoms treated. But even after treatment is completed, diverticulitis can occur again.
The most common symptom of diverticulitis is sudden pain in the lower left part of the abdomen. The pain will often worsen when you move. More common diverticulitis symptoms are listed below:
- Fever and chills
- Feeling bloated or gassy
- Nausea or at times vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- No appetite
- Rectal bleeding that appears bright red
These symptoms seem flu-like but if your symptoms last longer than a week, you should seek medical attention in order to solve the problem.
Diverticulitis Diet
Doctors believe one of the main causes for diverticulitis is due to a low-fiber diet. Eating little to no fiber will most likely cause constipation which leads to a constant strain on muscles in the intestines and colon. When these muscles are constantly being strained, your risk for developing diverticula and later diverticulitis becomes increased. Here are some foods you can add to your diet that are high in fiber. By implementing these simple changes to your everyday life, your risks for developing diverticulitis will be lower.
Diverticulitis diet:
- Pears
- Apples
- Oranges
- Bananas
- Mangos
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Beets
- Collard greens
- Spinach
- Raspberries
- Sweet potatoes with the skin on
- Black beans
- Kidney beans
- Whole
When looking for whole grain options, look for 5 or more grams of fiber per serving. By drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly and adding more fruits, vegetables and whole grains to your diet, you will really be doing your body a favor. Most Americans are not eating the right amount of fiber on a daily basis. It is common for countries with a lot of processed foods, like the United States, to lack in their daily fiber intake. Women need to be eating 25 grams of fiber a day and men need 38 grams per day.
Treatment
Diverticulitis is a common condition that is often painful and unpleasant. If you or a loved one has experienced any of the symptoms or issues previously mentioned, you should consider making an appointment with a gastroenterologist in Los Angeles. It is important to seek medical attention if your condition continues or worsens.
As a patient, you have the right to ask any questions about your health care. Learn about your specific health condition and how it can be successfully treated. Openly discuss various treatment options with your healthcare practitioner in order to make a sound decision on what care you would like to receive. Prior to following any course of therapy, it’s best to talk to a gastroenterologist to ensure that you can find a treatment that is both effective and safe for you.
Schedule a consultation today with a gastroenterologist to learn more about diverticulitis or if you want to find out more information about your treatment options.
