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 |
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