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Diverticulosis as seen Endoscopically
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, otherwise known as "'''diverticular disease'''", is the condition of having
Diverticula in the
Colon which are outpocketings of the colonic
Mucosa and submucosa through weaknesses of
Muscle layers in the colon wall. These are more common in the
Sigmoid Colon , which is a common place for increased pressure. This is uncommon before the age of 40 and increases in incidence after that age.
Diverticula are thought to be caused by increased pressure within the disorders which may cause weakness in the colon wall (ex.
Marfan Syndrome ).
About 10% of the US population over the age of 40 and half over the age of 60 has diverticulosis. This disease is common in the US,
England ,
Australia ,
Canada , and is uncommon in
Asia and
Africa . It is the most common cause for rectal bleeding in US adults over the age of 40 years.
Large mouth diverticula are associated with
Scleroderma .
Often this disorder has no symptoms. The most common is ,
Light-headed ness, or
Shortness Of Breath .
Colonoscopy is the most used test for diagnosis. This is important for treatment and investigation of other diseases. Other tests include abdominal
X-ray ,
Barium Enema ,
CT , or
MRI .
Infection of a diverticulum can result in
Diverticulitis . This occurs in 10-25% of persons with diverticulosis (NIDDK website). Tears in the colon leading to bleeding or perforations may occur, intestinal obstruction may occur (constipation or diarrhea does not rule this possibility out),
Peritonitis ,
Abscess formation,
Retroperitoneal Fibrosis ,
Sepsis , and
Fistula formation.
Infection of a diverticulum often occurs as a result of stool collecting in a diverticulum.
Often no treatment is needed. Increases in hydration, increasing fiber content in the diet (the s,
Popcorn hulls,
Sunflower Seed s,
Pumpkin Seed s,
Caraway Seed s, and
Sesame Seed s have traditionally been labeled as problem foods for people with this condition; however, no scientific data exists to prove this hypothesis. The seeds in
Tomato es,
Zucchini ,
Cucumber s,
Strawberries ,
Raspberries , and
Poppy Seed s, are not considered harmful by the NIDDK. Treatments, like some
Colon Cleanser s, that cause hard stools, constipation, and straining, are not recommended.
