Diverticulosis

Diverticula are "pouches" that protrude from the wall of the colon through weak points in the colon. Each such pouch is called a diverticulum (diverticula).

About half of the population in Western countries aged 60-80, and nearly all individuals over 80, are affected by diverticulosis.

When these pouches become infected or inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. The incidence of diverticulitis is 10%-25% of diverticulosis cases.

It is very common in older adults in Western countries. It can cause abdominal pain and constipation. Sometimes, diverticula also lead to bleeding, inflammation, or perforation of the colon wall. Symptom management is done with medication for constipation or abdominal pain. If complications arise, surgery may be required to remove the affected section of colon containing the diverticula.