Onco Surgeon Explains Diverticular Disease

 Diverticular disease comprises three disorders that involve the formation of tiny sacs or pockets in the colon's wall: diverticulosis, diverticular bleeding and diverticulitis, says the best gastroenterology doctor in Kolkata.

Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a condition which creates multiple microscopic pockets, or diverticula, in the intestinal lining. Diverticula are created when gas, waste, or liquid exerts excessive pressure on vulnerable areas of the intestinal walls. Diverticula can occur by straining during a bowel movement, such as with constipation. They are particularly abundant in the big intestine's bottom half (called the sigmoid colon).

Diverticulosis is highly prevalent, affecting 10% of persons over the age of 40 and 50% of people over 60. Diverticula will cause no or few symptoms in the majority of people.

About 20% of persons with diverticulosis will have complications. Rectal bleeding, also known as diverticular bleeding, is one of these problems, as is a diverticular infection, often known as diverticulitis, says the best cancer surgeon in Kolkata.

How Is Diverticulosis Diagnosed?

Diverticulosis is frequently discovered through testing conducted for an unrelated reason since persons with it do not have any symptoms. They typically consist of a barium enema, sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy.

Diverticular Bleeding

Diverticular bleeding occurs with persistent damage to the tiny blood arteries close to the diverticula.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis develops when one or more diverticula become inflamed and infected. This generally occurs when outpouchings get clogged with waste, allowing germs to grow and infect the patient.

What Are the Symptoms of Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is an infection and inflammation of the diverticula that can arise abruptly and without warning, says the best gastroenterology doctor in Kolkata.

Diverticulitis symptoms may include:

• Constipation and diarrhoea

• Cramping or discomfort in the lower abdomen

• Fever or chills

It is critical to consult your doctor if you are suffering symptoms of diverticulitis.

Your doctor will ask about your medical history (such as bowel habits, symptoms, food and current medicines) and do a physical exam, which may include an abdominal exam.

A diagnostic test or tests may be requested. Blood testing and CT scans are common tests for this. A colonoscopy may be ordered in patients who have quick, substantial rectal bleeding to determine the cause of the bleeding, says the onco surgeon in Kolkata.