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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 0.25 in. 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.

Author Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Martin Gabica, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP
- Gastroenterology
Last Updated August 31, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 31, 2006
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