Diverticulitis most commonly occurs in the sigmoid colon. It can be very painful. What happens is that when there is lack of bulk and volume of residues in the colon is small, the colon narrows and its contractions become more powerful (Marieb, Hoehn, 2013). This increases the pressure in the walls of the colon, causes the formation of diverticula. Diverticula are small herniation’s that are formed of mucosa through the colon wall. When the diverticula become inflamed, rupture may occur and leak into the peritoneal cavity, which can be life threatening if not taken care of by medical professionals (Marieb, Hoehn, 2013).
Normally what would happen in the colon during defecation is that the feces would move into and distend the rectum and …show more content…
Diagnosis is required by a medical professional. Lab test or imaging is often required. It is generally considered a disease of the elderly, but 20% of patients are younger than 50 years old (Mayo Clinic). There are more than 200,000 cases reported each year. Working in a long term facility, I have seen a lot of this in the elderly population. It is very sad to see a person deteriorate and become a recluse because of this condition. Normally a person would lay in bed most of the day due to the pain and weakness this disease causes.
Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and a change in bowel habits (Mayo Clinic). Some bleeding can also occur as the person may strain during defecation and create hemorrhoids.
Treatment can include rest, a liquid diet, probiotics and antibiotics. Severe cases may require hospital care and surgery. This is where they may remove the problem and extend the colon out and create a colostomy, so the patient can release feces. Doctors may also recommend a high fiber diet after symptoms cease to prevent further episodes (Mayo Clinic). Hydration is another key
Normally what would happen in the colon during defecation is that the feces would move into and distend the rectum and …show more content…
Diagnosis is required by a medical professional. Lab test or imaging is often required. It is generally considered a disease of the elderly, but 20% of patients are younger than 50 years old (Mayo Clinic). There are more than 200,000 cases reported each year. Working in a long term facility, I have seen a lot of this in the elderly population. It is very sad to see a person deteriorate and become a recluse because of this condition. Normally a person would lay in bed most of the day due to the pain and weakness this disease causes.
Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and a change in bowel habits (Mayo Clinic). Some bleeding can also occur as the person may strain during defecation and create hemorrhoids.
Treatment can include rest, a liquid diet, probiotics and antibiotics. Severe cases may require hospital care and surgery. This is where they may remove the problem and extend the colon out and create a colostomy, so the patient can release feces. Doctors may also recommend a high fiber diet after symptoms cease to prevent further episodes (Mayo Clinic). Hydration is another key