Imagine waking up with a sharp pain in your abdomen. It won’t go away. For many people, this is how they are alerted to the presence of diverticulitis. This is a condition that can develop suddenly and turns seemingly harmless pockets in the colon into a source of serious discomfort. Diverticulitis may sound like a little-known disease, but it’s actually quite common, especially as you get older.
But what exactly causes diverticulitis? And how can you prevent it from interfering with your life? Learn the basics of diverticulitis, including its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments. Let’s take a closer look.
What is diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is a disease that affects the digestive system, especially the colon. This occurs when small sacs known as diverticula form in the wall of the colon.
These bags are often harmless and do not cause symptoms. diverticulosis. However, when these diverticula become inflamed or infected, diverticulitis develops, which can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms that interfere with daily life.
What does diverticulitis feel like?
One of the most common symptoms of diverticulitis is abdominal pain, usually in the lower left side of the abdomen. Pain can range from mild to severe and may include: constant or intermittent — But it is usually sudden and intense. In more severe cases, the pain may last for several days. People with diverticulitis You may also experience Nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, cramps, bloating, changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea.
For some people, Diverticulitis can cause complications Abscesses, fistulas, urinary problems, obstructions, bleeding, etc. Although these complications are rare, some can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
read more: abdominal pain? Your gut bacteria may be the culprit.
What causes diverticulitis?
Although the exact cause of diverticulitis is not completely understood, there are several risk factors that are strongly believed to contribute to this condition. Diverticula usually form in weak areas of the colon wall, which can occur due to increased pressure from the large intestine. Cramps and strain.
Is diverticulitis hereditary?
meanwhile Lifestyle and eating habits play an important role There is increasing evidence that genetics also play a large role in the development of diverticulitis, up to approximately 40% to 50%. Twin studies further support that presumption. However, while our understanding of diverticulitis continues to improve, more research is needed to fully understand all risk factors.
As with many things, another important risk factor for diverticulitis is age. As we age, the colon tends to become less elastic, making diverticula more likely to develop. In the United States, More than 50% of people over 60 years old, more than 60% of people over 80 years old Although some people have diverticula in their colon, the majority do not develop diverticulitis.
other Risk factors for diverticulitis include:
-
obesity
-
smoking
-
heavy use of alcohol
-
lack of exercise
-
low fiber diet
-
Excessive intake of red meat
-
low vitamin D levels
-
some medicinesnonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, etc.
read more: New clues to chronic disease found in the gut
How to treat diverticulitis
Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of symptoms. For mild cases, treatment may include a combination of the following: Rest, antibiotics, and temporary switch to a liquid or low-fiber diet This is to allow the colon to heal. Once symptoms improve, patients are usually advised to slowly reintroduce fiber into their diet to prevent future recurrence.
In more severe cases, hospitalization may be required. This is especially true If the patient develops complications such as abscesses or perforations in the colon. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the damaged portion of the colon. It is generally considered a last resort and is only performed if other treatments have failed.
What to eat when you have diverticulitis
Diet plays an important role in both the management and prevention of diverticulitis. For acute flare-ups, doctors usually recommend the following treatments: Low-fiber or liquid diet to reduce strain on the colon. It is often recommended to consume foods such as soup, gelatin, applesauce, and even popsicles for several days until symptoms subside.
Once the inflammation has reduced, it is recommended to gradually reintroduce high-fiber foods. foods such as Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes It promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation. This relieves pressure within the colon and prevents further formation of diverticula.
It was once thought that nuts, seeds, and popcorn could cause diverticulitis, but research has since changed. This myth was debunked. In fact, these foods are rich in fiber, which may help prevent inflammation.
read more: It doesn’t take long to reset your gut health with a few lifestyle changes
Prevention of diverticulitis
Prevention of diverticulitis often focuses on lifestyle changes, especially dietary changes. a High fiber diet is keyIt helps soften the stool and ultimately relieves pressure on the colon. It’s also important to drink plenty of water, as dietary fiber is most effective when it absorbs water.
Regular exercise has also been shown to be beneficial. Reduces the risk of both diverticulitis and diverticular bleeding. lastly, Quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, and maintain a healthy weight All can help prevent diverticulitis.
If you suspect diverticulitis or have symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice to receive a proper diagnosis and avoid complications. Diverticulitis can be painful and sometimes serious, but proactive measures can greatly reduce the impact on your life.
read more: Recurring stomach pain? Could be abdominal migraine
article source of information
our writers are discovermagazine.com We use peer-reviewed research and high-quality sources in our articles, and our editors review them for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Check out the following sources used in this article.
Jake Parks is a freelance writer and editor specializing in science news reporting. He has written for Astronomy Magazine, Discover Magazine, The Ohio State University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, among others.
