5 Tips on Diverticular Disease

1. Diverticulosis is a condition with pouch-like protrusions in the colon:
* Rare before age 30
* Common after age 60
* Usually no symptoms

2. Complications of diverticulosis include:
* Bright red rectal bleeding with clots
* Diverticulitis

3. Ways to prevent and manage diverticular disease include:
* Increasing dietary fiber to keep bowel movements soft
* Avoiding stimulant laxatives

4. Diverticulitis is a serious complication in which pouches become inflamed or infected. Symptoms of diverticulitis include:
* Pain in left lower abdomen
* Fever
* Sudden change in bowel habit
See your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.

5. Treatment of diverticulitis may include:
* Antibiotics
* Special feeding
* Surgery