Diverticulitis
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What causes diverticulosis?
An exact cause for diverticulosis is not known but certain factors may contribute to its development. For example, the risk of diverticulosis increases with age. Low-fiber diet can also cause diverticulosis to develop. Lack of exercise, being overweight and smoking increase your risk of diverticulosis.
Symptoms
The symptoms below may occur:
- Abdominal pain, often in the lower left abdomen
- Changes in bowel movements
- Bloating and flatulence
How is a diagnosis made?
Diverticulosis is often discovered during examinations performed for other reasons. To specifically look for diverticulosis, a (virtual) colonoscopy can be performed.
How is diverticulitis treated?
Treatment of diverticulosis usually focuses on preventing complications and relieving symptoms. A high-fiber diet can help regulate bowel movements and reduce pressure on the bowel wall. Be sure to drink enough, this helps keep stools soft. Regular exercise promotes bowel function and helps prevent constipation.
A healthy lifestyle and regular checkups with your doctor can prevent many complications of diverticulosis. If you develop diverticulitis, you may be given medication to combat the inflammation.
How is the procedure performed?
If the infection recurs frequently or if complications occur, it may be necessary to surgically remove the colon with diverticulitis. In this case, the Hartmann procedure is often performed. During this operation, the part of the bowel in which the inflammation is located is removed. A temporary stoma is placed.
If there is little or no infection in the abdomen, a new connection can be made between the remaining parts. This procedure can be performed through either keyhole surgery (laparoscopic) or open surgery.