Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a common digestive disease particularly found in the colon. Diverticulitis develops from Diverticulosis, which is caused by diverticulum. Diverticulum is saclike protrusions of the mucosa formed when the mucous membrane herniates outward through weak segments of the colon. The saclike protrusions may become infected or inflamed from food or feces being lodged inside the protrusions, which is known as diverticulitis. Diverticulitis can occur anywhere in the colon; however about 85% occur in the sigmoid colon, where intaluminal pressures are the highest (Goldsmith, 2009). Diverticulitis can also lead to bleeding, infections, perforations or tears, or blockages in the colon. Afflicting men and women equally, the incidence of diverticular disease increases dramatically with age, affecting 5% of people under age 40, about 30% of people by age 60, and approximately 50% to 70% of people age 80 and older (Goldsmith, 2009). Aging and insufficient dietary fiber are two of the primary risk factors for developing diverticulitis. Some other factors that influence and/or cause diverticulitis include: excess intake of refined carbohydrates, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, use of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), decreased blood supply to the colon, inherent weakness in the colonic wall, and diseases of connective tissue. Although, aging does play a big role in developing diverticulistis, these other factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. Most people who develop diverticulitis are asymptomatic. People who have symptoms complain of: intermittent pain in the left lower abdomen that worsens with eating and is relieved with bowel movements, mild cramping, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and acute hemorrhage may occur without warning or pain. For patients with more serious diverticulitis symptoms may include: acute abdominal pain (usually described as severe and present in left lower abdomen), fever and chills