Is a disease or condition that occurs within the large intestines.

Typically the disease is a progression from another condition called Diverticulosis.

Diverticulosis is out-pockets in the intestines, also referred to as pouches.

When one of these pockets becomes inflamed or infected it is referred to as Diverticulitis

Symptoms:

   -    Abdominal pain
   -    Abdominal cramping
   -    Fever
   -    Chills
   -    Nausea
   -    Vomiting
   -    Diarrhea
   -    Constipation

Causes:

   -    Increased colon pressure
   -    Lack of fiber
   -    Blockage of food particles or other item within the pocket
   -    Bacterial infection

Diagnosis

-    Blood work
        *    Leukocytosis or elevated WBC is often seen

-    CT, MRI

-    Abdominal X-ray

-    Colonoscopy – is often done for diagnosis of diverticulosis but when an infection is present
not always gone

Treatment

-    Bowel rest
        *   no oral foods

-    Hospital admission may be necessary

-    IV fluids

-    Antibiotics

-    Surgery – necessary in some cases

-    Dietary change for prevention

***     -     some argument has been made over the avoidance of nuts and seeds.  This continues to currently be under discussion.