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$Title{What is The Meaning of "Diverticular Disease"}
$Subject{diverticular disease digestive system diverticulosis intestinal
intestine colon diverticulum diverticulitis constipation large intestines}
$Volume{I-12}
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Diverticulosis*0010001.scf
The Formation of a Diverticulum*0010002.scf
Diverticulitis*0010101.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is The Meaning of "Diverticular Disease"


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QUESTION:  I heard a new term the other day which has me confused and I hope
you will be able to clear it up for me.  Would you please explain the meaning
of "diverticular disease"?  I suppose it has something to do with
diverticulosis, but I am not sure.  What does it have to do with
"diverticulosis" or are they all different?  Please explain.

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ANSWER:  Though at the outset a bit confusing, this question is easy to
understand since all the terms deal with the same condition.  "Diverticular
Disease" is an intestinal condition caused by the formation of pouches or sacs
in the walls of the large intestine or colon.  Instead of having a smooth
tubular appearance, the intestine has sprouted these little sacs that look
like grapes.  Each sac is a "diverticulum", and the presence of them is known
as "diverticulosis".
     Many people with diverticulosis have no symptoms and don't even know they
have it.  However, sometimes one or more of the sacs becomes infected and
inflamed.  This condition is then known as "diverticulitis" and its symptoms
are pain and blood in the stool.  It is not a situation that can be ignored,
and medical care is required to put things back in order.
     Diverticulosis is caused when the large intestine develops weak spots.
Constipation increases the pressure within the intestine and the weak spots
turn into pouches.  Avoiding constipation is the best way to avoid
diverticular disease, and the best way to do that is to eat a high fiber diet,
drink plenty of fluids and exercise regularly.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.