Diverticulosis is one of the three diverticular
diseases. It’s associated with
diverticula, or pouches that form in the colon.
No one knows exactly why these pockets are developed, but there are some
theories.
Some doctors believe that diverticula develop when high
pressure is applied against weak spots in the colon wall. This type of thing happens when your diet is
low in fiber and your colon needs to exert excess pressure to move small, hard
stools.
Unfortunately, most people don’t have symptoms for
diverticulosis—if you find out you have the condition, it’s likely that you’ve
had it for some time. However, there are
symptoms for painful diverticular disease including cramping abdominal pain and
diarrhea—just like the symptoms of IBS.
Tests such as colonoscopies and
barium enema X-rays often diagnose diverticulosis.
If you are diagnosed with the condition, you’ll be pushed by your doctor to eat a high-fiber diet and to drink a good amount of water. This will help to prevent constipation so that your condition is not worsened.
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