Bowel disease is characterized by inflammation or infection of the diverticula and can be dangerous to your health.
Diverticulitis is a bowel disease characterized by inflammation or infection of the diverticula, which are small bumps or sacs that can form anywhere in the digestive tract, but most often occur in the large intestine. It is a common condition in people who suffer from chronic constipation or who follow a low-fiber diet.
Causes of the disease
Among the causes of diverticulitis, genetic predisposition, a diet low in fibers and the consequent loss of elasticity of the intestinal muscles. According to Dr. Paulo Braga, the disease is the result of a perforation of the diverticulum, which can be small or large. “This perforation may be due to increased intraluminal pressure or due to food particles that cause erosion of the diverticular wall, which progresses to inflammation, focal necrosis and perforation,” explains the specialist.
symptoms of diverticulitis
Gastroenterologist Dr. Paulo Braga explains that the most common sign of the disease is intense and sharp pain at the abdomen, which may vary by location. “This pain may be accompanied by fever, nausea/vomiting, and in some cases, the patient may have urinary symptoms,” she says. The severity of the inflammation can also vary the intensity of the symptoms.
Difference between diverticulitis and diverticulosis
Both diverticulitis and diverticulosis are caused by problems with the diverticulum. The difference between them is that the former is characterized by inflammation of the diverticula, which may have abscesses or perforations. The second, in turn, there is a large presence of diverticula in intestine often.
How is the diagnosis made?
As explained by Dr. Paulo Braga, diverticulitis is usually diagnosed through imaging tests, such as abdominal X-ray or computed tomography, laboratory tests and the patient’s life history. This also eliminates the chances of the patient suffering from appendicitis, colon cancer and Crohn’s disease, which may have symptoms look like.
treatment of diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is a disease that needs to be treated as it can lead to more serious complications such as intestinal perforation or obstruction. However, according to Dr. Paulo Braga, treatment varies according to the severity of the problem. In mild cases, the use of antibiotics, rest, intravenous hydration, pain control and other symptoms are indicated. Furthermore food it can also be changed into an asset intestinal functioning🇧🇷 “In the most severe cases with major abdominal involvement, surgical procedures may be necessary,” says the specialist.
disease prevention
The recommendation to prevent diverticulitis includes a healthier lifestyle. “Good health habits are factors that protect against inflammation of the diverticulum, in addition to the consumption of foods rich in fiber, physical activities regular diets, prudence in the use of anti-inflammatories and smoking cessation”, recommends the gastroenterologist.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
