Diverticular Disease: Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
Diverticulosis: A common disease in which small pockets, or diverticula, develop in the wall of the colon. This is generally caused by a low fiber diet that builds up pressure in the lumen of the bowel. Diverticula often form due to straining during a bowel movement. They occur most frequently in the lower portion of the large intestine, called the sigmoid colon.
Diverticulitis: This occurs when the openings of diverticula in the wall colon are blocked by waste and become infected, causing severe pain and tenderness in the abdomen, possibly coupled with chills and fever. Diverticulitis may be sometimes complicated by perforation or abscess formation. If you think you have diverticulitis, you should see your physician immediately, as the symptoms for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and stomach ulcers may be similar. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics and sometimes may require hospitalization and surgery.
At Colorectal Consultants, we offer prompt and friendly service to all our patients. Dr. Tarazi treats diverticulitis. You may click on the links below to expand on each subject. This will take you to the official American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery website for up-to-date educational information.
Diverticular Disease Expanded Version