Diverticulosis - Threat to Colon Health

If a person is diagnosed with diverticulosis they have pockets that appear on the inside of the colon. In severe cases, these can actually push through to the outer part of the colon. When only one pocket is found, it is called a diverticulum. If there is more than one then they are called diverticula.

There is a similar affliction called diverticulitis. It is common among those who also suffer from diverticulosis. One person in four who has diverticulosis also gets diverticulitis. Any time the diverticulum gets irritated, and then diverticulitis is likely to follow.

What Can Cause Diverticulosis?

It's probable that a lack of fibrous food in the diet is one of the causes of diverticulosis, but this has not been definitively proven by medical research. It's interesting - and probably relevant - that diverticulosis became an increasing issue for adults in America beginning in the early nineteen hundreds. This is probably because of the switch from fresh foods to foods that were prepackaged. Processing can remove the natural fiber found in most food types. Those who eat a great deal of ready made dinners or fast foods tend to have diverticulosis much more frequently than those who eat mostly fresh unprocessed foods.

There is many fewer cases of diverticulosis in undeveloped countries where the majority of the population eats fresh foods. In continents such as Africa and Asia, diverticulosis is practically unknown.

The Symptoms of Diverticulosis

For the most part, people don't even know they have diverticulosis. The symptoms are generally mild and easy to ignore. When symptoms do appear, they might include

• Slight Cramps
• Bloated Feeling
• Hard Stools

These indications can also be caused by a wide variety of issues related to the stomach, which makes diverticulosis hard to diagnose. Physicians need to do further tests to know for sure if the problem is diverticulosis or another issue such as an ulcer or irritable bowel syndrome.

How to Treat Diverticulosis

Simply eating healthier can help alleviate diverticulosis. Eating fresh vegetables and grains that contain good quantities of fiber will definitely make a difference. If the symptoms become more severe, a physician may need to be consulted for further treatment.

For more information on topics related to this article, click on Diverticulosis and Colon Health.

George McKenzie is a retired TV anchor, medical reporter and radio talk show host. He is a frequent contributor to Colon Health, a resource site about digestive health and wellness.