Diverticulosis
#47
Diverticulosis is a condition in which small pouches or bulges called diverticula develop in the inner walls of the colon. Diverticula form when the muscle layers in the colon wall weaken, which allows pouches to push outward.
Causes
The cause of this condition is not definitively known, but the most likely cause is low fiber intake. This is because when there isn’t enough fiber consumed, your stool becomes dry and hard, leading to muscles having to strain to push the stool along the colon.
Symptoms
Diverticulosis does not usually have any symptoms, and most people never even know they have this condition. However, some people have symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and cramping in the lower abdomen.
Treatment
Diverticulosis doesn’t usually require treatment, and it usually will not significantly affect an individual’s life. However, there are complications of diverticulosis that may need treatment, such as diverticulitis. (next week!)
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