Definition of Diverticulosis – This course is designed to understand the concept of community health nursing: nurses’ roles and interventions in family health, school health, occupational health, environmental health, elderly health care, gender issues, disaster management and principles and terminology of epidemiology. The aim of the course is to acquire knowledge and skills in community health nursing.
Definition of Diverticulosis
Definition of Diverticulosis:
Diverticulosis is the formation of numerous tiny pockets, or diverticula, in the lining of the bowel.
Or,
Diverticulosis refers to the presence of small out-pouching’s (called diverticula) or sacs that can develop in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. While diverticula can be present anywhere in the intestines, they are most common on the left side of the large intestine, the area known as the descending and sigmoid colon.
Symptoms of Diverticulosis:
Most patients with diverticulosis have no symptoms or complications, and will never know they have the condition unless it is discovered during an endoscopic or radiographic (x-ray) examination. Some individuals may experience chronic pain or discomfort in the left lower abdomen, bloating, and/or a change in bowel habits that may be related to having diverticulosis or a past history of diverticulitis.
Diagnosis
Diverticulosis is generally discovered through one of the following examinations:
1. Barium enema: This x-ray test involves putting liquid material into the colon through a tube placed in the rectum. The x-ray image shows the outline of the colon, and can identify if diverticula, large polyps or growths are present.
2. Colonoscopy: This test uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera to view the inside of the colon. Diverticula as well as polyps and other abnormalities can be seen with this instrument.
3. CT scan: This radiology test takes multiple cross-sectional pictures of the body. It is not generally performed to make a diagnosis of diverticulosis, but this type of exam, when done for other reasons, may identify diverticula.
Risk factors
- Advanced age
- Constipation
- A diet that is low in dietary fiber (although this claim is controversial)
- Connective tissue disorders (such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome) that may cause weakness in the colon wall
- Hereditary or genetic predisposition,
- Extreme weight loss
- Heavy meat consumption
Complications of Diverticulosis:
Diverticulitis is inflammation of one or a few diverticula in the same area of the colon (usually the sigmoid or descending colon). Diverticulitis occurs in less than 5% of people who have diverticulosis.
People with diverticulitis characteristically present with the fairly sudden onset of pain in the abdomen, usually on the lower left side. Other common symptoms include fever, diarrhea and/or constipation, decreased appetite, nausea and fatigue.
People with diverticulitis can develop related complications including:
- Abscess-a collection of infected fluid outside of the intestinal/colon wall.
- Stricture-a narrowing of the colon in the area of diverticulitis
- Fistula-a connection between the bowel and nearby organs including the bladder or the vagina.
- Perforation-a hole in the colon that allows bowel contents to leak into the abdomen. This is the most serious complication of diverticulitis.
Treatment:
The best way to treat diverticulosis is to avoid constipation. Here are some ideas:
- Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are high in fiber.
- Drink plenty of fluids, enough so that the urine is light yellow or clear like water.
- Get some exercise every day. Try to do moderate or vigorous activity for at least 24 hours a week. It’s fine to be active in blocks of 10 minutes or more throughout your day and week.
- Take a fiber supplement, such as Prodiem or Metamucil, every day if needed. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- Schedule time each day for a bowel movement. Having a daily routine may help. Take your time and do not strain when you are having a bowel movement…
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