Diverticulosis colon refers to a pouch-like growth on the colonic wall. The growth is usually as a result of the walls being inflamed or due to other internal complications. It is most common in the region of the sigmoid colon. The sigmoid colon, or pelvic colon as it is commonly referred, is that portion of the colon that is in close proximity to the anus or rectum. It is a part of the large intestine and is usually looped, measuring about 40cm lengthwise.

Factors influencing the development of diverticulosis colon

The factors influencing this colon disease may be environmental or epidemiologic. The environmental factors for diverticulosis colon are many. Some environmental factors include a low-fiber, unbalanced diet, obesity, smoking of cigarettes on a regular basis, excessive intake of caffeine, excessive alcohol consumption, polycystic kidney disease, lack of or decreased physical activity, corticosteroids and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The epidemiologic factors – factors relating to the research into certain elements in the society – include the age of the individual, ethnicity, where the individual lives and general lifestyle choices.

Who is most at risk

Research out of Cleveland Clinic from H. Nail Aydin, Feza Remzi of Disease Management Project suggests that it is most common in individuals over 85 years old, with 66% of those researched falling in that age group. Only between 5% and 10% of those diagnosed with diverticulosis colon were less than 50 years old at the time of diagnosis.

Symptoms and Signs

Individuals with diverticulosis colon may experience abrupt, sharp pains in the abdominal area, flatulence, severe bloating, and changes in bowel movement.

Treatment

This disorder of the colon may be treated medically or surgically. Treatment for patients with mild diverticulosis colon includes simple changes to the diet and standard oral intravenous (IV) antibiotics. The patients best suited for this type of treatment are those not experiencing any fever or excessive abdominal issues. Most patients usually respond well to these two treatments over time.

Surgical treatment is also available in emergency cases or electively. Sigmoid colectomy is recommended for those patients with severe symptoms. The decision for elective surgery will be dependent on the age of the patient, severity of abdominal attacks, medical condition of the patient, among other critical factors.

Prevention

Eliminating or controlling the factors which result in diverticulosis colon is the first step towards prevention of the disease. Other preventative measures include increasing fiber intake, and the amount of fluid that is consumed daily. In addition, lifestyle changes to include regular exercise and healthy weight loss can assist in limiting the development of this type of colon ailment.

Like most other diseases, prevention is better than cure. Where the disease is not genes related, individuals should try to practice healthy living, making the right decisions about what enters the body and also about which recreational activities to partake in. Early diagnosis and treatment is recommended. If diagnosed early, surgery does not always have to be the solution for diverticulosis colon. There is a good book called: “The Positive Options for Colorectal Cancer: Self-Help and Treatment” that may give you more information you are looking for.