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Diverticula
Diverticula are small,
bulging pouches that can
form in the lining of the
digestive system. They
are found most often in
the lower part of the large
intestine (colon).
Diverticula are common,
especially after age 40,
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Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
The presence of diverticula is known as diverticulosis
(die-vur-tik-yoo-LOE-sis).
When one or more of the pouches become inflamed,
and in some cases infected, that condition is known as
diverticulitis (die-vur-tik-yoo-LIE-tis).
Diverticulitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever,
nausea and a marked change in the bowel habits.
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Etiology
Diverticulosis when naturally weak places in the colon give way
under pressure. This causes marble-sized pouches to protrude
through the colon wall.
Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula traumatized or inflamed ,
resulting in inflammation, and in some cases, infection.
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Risk factors
1. Aging. occurs in 10% of people over age 40 and in 50% of people over age 60.
The rate of diverticulosis increases with age, and it affects almost everyone over
age 80
2. Obesity.
3. Smoking.
4. Lack of exercise. Vigorous exercise appears to lower the risk of diverticulitis.
5. Diet high in animal fat and low in fiber.
6. Certain medications.
steroids
opioids
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium (Aleve).
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The signs and symptoms
1. Pain, which may be constant and persist for several days. The
lower left side of the abdomen is the usual site of the pain.
Sometimes, however, the right side of the abdomen is more painful,
especially in people of Asian descent.
1. Nausea and vomiting.
2. Fever.
3. Abdominal tenderness.
4. Constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea.
5. Rectal bleeding
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Complications
About 25% of people with acute diverticulitis develop
complications, which may include:
1. An abscess, which occurs when pus collects in the
pouch.
2. A stricture formation.
3. A fistula between sections of bowel or the bowel and
other organs.
4. Peritonitis,
Peritonitis is a medical emergency and requires
immediate care.
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Dx
Investigations to exclude other causes of the pain
US
CT scan, can also indicate the severity of diverticulitis
and guide treatment.
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Rx
Non-complicated conservative
Complicated surgery
1. For complications, such as abscess, fistula or obstruction, or perforation.
2. Multiple episodes of uncomplicated diverticulitis
3. Immunosuppressive patients
Surgeries
1. Primary bowel resection.
2. Bowel resection with colostomy.