Diseases and Conditions Nutrition

A Comprehensive Guide to Living With Diverticulitis

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Diverticulitis is a condition that affects the diverticula—small pouches that may form in the lining of the digestive system—around the colon. This little bulges are common in individuals around the age of 40 and up and rarely cause any pain or health problems; but sometimes these diverticula become infected or inflamed. When that happens, you get diverticulitis.

A life with diverticulitis is unique to every patient, but one thing everyone has in common is discomfort. Yet, this pain can be effectively managed, especially if you educate yourself on the causes, signs and symptoms, treatment methods, and natural remedies that are available.

Causes of Diverticulitis

Although the exact cause of diverticula has yet to be pinpointed, most medical professionals agree that pressure on the colon is often the cause for the inflammation and infection of these gastrointestinal bulges. Since the pockets are already weak, too much pressure can cause micro tears and perforations. In some cases, these pouches will burst. When this happens, bacteria can entire the diverticula and infect it.