Diverticulosis rarely progresses to diverticulitis

Posted on September 18, 2012 by drlesliegreenberg
What does this mean?  Diverticuli are outpouches in the bowel.  Diverticulosis is the condition of having diverticuli.  Diverticulitisis when these diverticuli get inflamed. 
Diverticulitis may present as right lower abdominal pain.  Diverticuli are more common as we age and with history of constipation.We used to think that 25% of diverticulosis patients would have an episode of inflammation of diverticuli.  (Diverticulitis episodes are dreaded—incapacitating pain can occur.)  We now know after a study of over 2,000 patients the rate is really 1%.
Furthermore. . . if you are 30 when diagnosed with diverticulosis the chance is greater that in your lifetime you may have an episode of diverticulitis compared to someone diagnosed with diverticulosis at age 60.
 
Hope this helps.

About drlesliegreenberg

I have been practicing as a family physician for over 20 years--as both an educator of physicians and clinician. From infancy to the elderly, I perform obstetrics and general medicine. I love my career and am passionate about my field of knowledge and my patients. Follow me on Facebook at Leslie Md Greenberg Medical Disclaimer The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.
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