Diverticulosis

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Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a condition in which pouches called diverticula form in the wall of the large intestine (colon). The pouches may not cause any symptoms, or they may bleed or become painful, inflamed, or infected.

Diverticula form when increased pressure pushes the wall of the colon outward at certain weak points. These pouches may be smaller than a pencil lead or larger than in diameter. They become more likely with age. Although they are found most often in the colon, diverticula can be found in nearly all parts of the digestive tract.

Most people don't know they have diverticulosis. If diagnosed, it is usually managed by increasing the amount of fiber in the person's diet and avoiding constipation.

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Author	Monica Rhodes
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Last Updated	July 30, 2008

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Last updated:	July 30, 2008
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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