A form of diverticular disease in which there are diverticula present in the intestine, particularly in the colon. Complications of diverticulosis may include intestinal bleeding and diverticulitis. The cause is believed to be lack of adequate dietary fibre (see fibre, dietary). Diverticulosis is very rare in developing countries. Symptoms occur in only 20 per cent of people with diverticulosis. They usually result from spasm or cramp of the intestinal muscle near diverticula. Many patients have symptoms similar to those of irritable bowel syndrome, such as abdominal pain, a bloated sensation, and changes in bowel habits. In severe cases, intestinal haemorrhage may produce bleeding from the rectum. In patients with cramps, a high-fibre diet, fibre supplements, and antispasmodic drugs may relieve the symptoms. A high-fibre diet also reduces the incidence of complications. Bleeding from diverticula usually subsides without treatment, but surgery is an option.
Diverticulosis |
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