People with diverticulosis have small pouches or pockets inside the walls of their intestines. The pouches (diverticula) develop when the inside lining of the intestine pushes into weak areas in the wall of the intestine. Diverticulosis is common, especially in older adults; the majority of people over age 80 have diverticulosis.
The cause of diverticulosis is not completely known, but it may be related to a low-fiber diet and possibly genetics. Most people with diverticulosis never develop any symptoms. About 5% of people with diverticulosis develop diverticulitis which occurs when there is inflammation in the diverticula. Symptoms of diverticulitis include fever, constipation or diarrhea, and substantial abdominal pain. If you develop any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare team promptly.
Eating a high-fiber diet can help to prevent diverticulitis. A fiber supplement such as psyllium or methylcellulose can also increase your fiber intake. Some studies indicate limiting the amount of red meat in your diet can also decrease the risk. In the past, people were advised to stop eating nuts, popcorn, and seeds as these were thought to lodge in the diverticula and cause inflammation. Recent studies have not shown any link between these foods and diverticulitis.
Other risks for developing diverticulitis include being overweight and smoking. The regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen may increase the risk of diverticulitis. Always check with your healthcare team prior to stopping any medications.
Diverticulosis can cause rectal bleeding. Bright red or maroon blood or blood clots are passed. This is rare and occurs in 5-10% of people with diverticulosis. Usually, this bleeding is not associated with any abdominal pain. Occasionally bleeding due to diverticulosis can become severe, so it is important to contact your health care team if you develop any rectal bleeding.