|
|
Diverticulitis
Definition Diverticulitis is inflammation of an abnormal pouch (diverticulum) in the intestinal wall, usually found in the large intestine (colon). The presence of the pouches themselves is called diverticulosis.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Small protruding sacs of the inner lining of the intestine (diverticulosis) can develop in any part of the intestine. They are most common in the colon. These sacs, called diverticula, occur with increasing frequency after the age of 40. When they become inflamed, the condition is known as diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition where the area around the diverticula becomes irritated and attracts immune cells. It affects 10% to 20% of those with diverticula at some time. These areas can become infected. Risk factors are older age and history of diverticula or prior episodes of diverticulitis. Eating a high-fiber diet and avoiding seeds and nuts may prevent episodes.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Diverticulitis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Diverticulitis Symptoms & Signs
• Diverticulitis Prevention
• Diverticulitis Diagnosis & Tests
• Diverticulitis Treatment
• Diverticulitis Prognosis
• Diverticulitis Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Abscess
• Peritonitis
Tests & Exams
• Barium Enema
• Colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy
Other Topics
• Abdominal Pain
• Acute
• Bloody or Tarry Stools
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Fiber
• Fistula
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Palpation
Review Date : 5/16/2002
Reviewed By : Andrew J. Muir, M.D., M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
