Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a clinical condition in which multiple sac-like protrusions (diverticula) develop along the gastrointestinal tract. These may have been formed from weak points in the walls of either the small or large intestines (mostly forms in the sigmoid colon).

Most people with diverticulosis are asymptomatic.

Diverticula is mostly an incidental finding when an endoscopy or a CT scan of the abdomen is being done for some other purpose.

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6382/12/3/443

Diverticular disease is characterised by abdominal pain & possible bleeding with a known diagnosis of diverticulosis. In some cases symptoms resemble appendicitis, hence immediate evaluation is necessary in acute episodes of abdominal pain.

Why does this happen?

Diverticulosis likely occurs due to,

• peristalsis abnormalities (e.g. abnormalities with the natural rhythmic movements of the intestines) such as intestinal dyskinesia (slow contractions of the intestines)

• high segmental intraluminal pressures (high pressure within the intestines)

• Low fibre intake

• High intake of red meat

Who might be at risk for complications?

• The risk of diverticulitis & intestinal bleeding is significantly higher in obese patients (higher waist circumference should be taken note of, apart from BMI)

• Smoking raises risk of diverticular abscess formation or perforation (loss of intestinal wall integrity with subsequent bleeding which may be fatal)

• Iatrogenic complications: Medications associated with an increased risk of diverticular bleeding are NSAIDs, opiates, and steroids. 

Source: https://www.performancehealth.com/articles/understanding-diverticulitis-symptoms--treatment?srsltid=AfmBOoqawjTN1kWQPyGewU4BQZ4QI3eY5qYU4yMmP03ZNApbibIYEF01

Symptoms:

• Abdominal pain/cramping

• Bloating

• Alterations in bowel habit (Diarrhoea/constipation)

• Blood in stool

Treatment & Management:

• Increasing fiber and fluids in the diet.

  • It is noteworthy that studies have found no positive or negative association between diverticular disease and consumption of nuts, grains, potassium, vitamin C, and magnesium. Hence, please don't splurge on supplements that promise magic cure!

  • Consuming antioxidant-rich food is important to protect oneself from free-radical damage.

• In Siddha medicine, we focus on treating the gut with medicines like anda leghyam, and possibly treat the underlying inflammation with medicines like muthu parpam, kungiliya parpam, etc. The approach in treating & choice of medicine will differ for each patient.