Diverticular Disease What is the difference between...

When pockets develop in the wall of the colon, this is called diverticulosis. The pockets that form are called diverticula; the pockets pick up fecal matter as the body’s waste is propelled through the colon. Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are classified as diverticular disease. The main difference between diverticulosis and diverticulitis is that there is no inflammation, and with the second there is. Approximately 80 percent of the individuals who have been diagnosed with diverticulosis never advance to the more serious condition, diverticulitis. Most people who have diverticulosis have no symptoms at all. Symptoms of diverticulosis Abdominal bloating Constipation Diarrhea Left lower abdominal pain (relieved after passing†¦show more content†¦The weak spots in the colon pooch outward and fill up with fecal matter. It is believed that a diet which lacks enough fiber is a primary cause of the high pressure created in the colon. The increased pressure causes tissue breakdown of the colonic wall. If you don’t eat enough fiber, the stool gets hard. When stool gets hard, it tends to stay in one spot and more fecal matter packs up behind it, which causes more pressure to be exerted on the wall of the colon. Causes of diverticulitis The causes of diverticulitis are also thought to be due to internal pressure in the colon. It’s not completely understood what causes the diverticula to become inflamed and infected. The internal pressure of fecal matter in the diverticula can impair circulation; when circulation is reduced in the diverticula, the tissue can break down and sometimes the pouches can burst. It is believed that aging has something to do with compromising the muscle tone of the colonic wall; people aged 50 and over are most at risk for diverticulosis and diverticulitis. It is believed that high fat diets and obesity also play a role in developing diverticular disease. How is diverticular disease diagnosed? Diverticulosis – Since diverticulosis usually has no significant symptoms, it is often found during routine screening exams. Diverticulosis may also be found when you are having scans t rule out some other