What is Diverticulitis & Diverticulosis?

What is Diverticulitis & Diverticulosis?

As a nurse, you may very well be faced with patients who have serious cases of diverticulitis. Diverticulosis is a common condition in people over 50 in particular. The condition consists of small pouches within the wall lining of the digestive tract. This happens when a lack of fiber causes constipation, which in turn pushes the lining, creating these pockets. These pockets are normally located in the lower portion of the large intestine, the colon. It varies on how many and where the pockets are. In some cases it may affect only one side, and in other cases it may line the entire area.

Related: How to Express a Complaint or Concern Risk Factors for Diverticulosis This is a very common condition, many people around age 50 develop it, and by age 60 more than 50% have Diverticulosis in some form. By age 80 around 98% of people have this condition. As we age the pouches become more prominent, and in younger years it's very uncommon. Certain parts of the world, such as Asia are not familiar with the condition; it is nonexistent in that region. Asia is known for a diet rich in fiber, which is what led doctors to the conclusion high fiber diets were key to preventing this condition. Most people that have this condition are unaware; however, at times symptoms can include bloating, cramps, and constipation. To lower the risks of developing Diverticulosis, maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fiber. Get exercise daily, and drink water every day.

Diagnosis of Diverticulosis Generally this condition is determined by a routine colonoscopy. Screening for polyps is often what leads to the discovery of Diverticulosis.

Gastroenterologist are able to visualize the pouches during a colonoscopy or a sigmoidoscopy. There is no treatment for Diverticulosis other than elevating the intake of fiber in the diet. It is recommended that adults get 35 grams of fiber per day, while most get only 20. Diverticulosis can lead to diverticulitis, which is a more serious condition, however proper exercise and diet can prevent complications.

Diverticulitis Diverticulitis occurs when the small bulging pockets inside the intestinal tract become inflamed or infected. The most common symptom is extreme pain that comes on suddenly in the lower left side of the abdomen. Doctors recommend drinking large quantities of water to help clear up diverticulitis.

When diverticulitis is present, the small pockets become inflamed, and

blisters can appear in the lining of the intestinal tract. At this point, the Diverticulosis becomes Diverticulitis. This can be a very painful condition, and often people end up in an emergency room with severe discomfort.

Severe Diverticulitis can be accompanied by a fever, and require a course of antibiotic treatment. In addition, pain medication may be prescribed to ease pain until symptoms improve. Diverticulitis can produce rectal bleeding if the condition is severe. This can lead to skin problems on and around the rectum, which can also cause discomfort. Although rare, bleeding can occur within the intestinal walls, and if left untreated could be serious. In some cases a hospital stay is necessary if bleeding is excessive. IV fluids will be administered, and blood transfusions will be administered if necessary. An extended course of treatment for diverticulitis could involve weeks in a hospital, although that is rare.

Related: Stomach Problems: Symptoms, Reasons and Avoiding The best approach to avoiding this condition is to consume plenty of fiber rich foods. Some foods that contain high levels of fiberFruits Fiber-rich fruits include: bananas, oranges, apples, mangoes, strawberries, raspberries.

Vegetables Generally, the darker the color, the higher the fiber content. Fill up your shopping cart with: carrots, beets, broccoli, collard greens, Swiss chard, spinach, artichokes, and potatoes (russet, red, and sweet).

Beans & Legumes Beans and legumes are flavorful, fiber-filled additions to salads, soups, and chilis. Navy, white, garbanzo, kidney, peas, or lentils are all healthy choices.

Breads & Grains  Whole grain breads: Select 7-grain, dark rye, cracked wheat, pumpernickel. Make sure “whole wheat” or another whole grain is listed as the first ingredient.  Grains: Try bulgur wheat, brown rice, wild rice, and barley instead of white rice.  Cereals: Look for those with 5 or more grams of fiber per serving.

If a diet is not high in fiber from natural food sources, it may be advisable to add a soluble fiber supplement. Fiber products that mix with water are the best solution, it adds the fiber and allows for another serving of water.

While Diverticulosis and diverticulitis originate in the same way, Diverticulosis is most often not noticeable, while Diverticulitis is an infection and should be treated as such. A Gastroenterologist can properly diagnose the condition and prescribe the appropriate course of treatment.

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