5 Tips on Diverticular Disease

1. Diverticulosis is a condition with pouch-like protrusions in the colon:
   • Rare before age 30
   • Common after age 60
   • Usually no symptoms
2. Complications of diverticulosis include:
   • Bright red rectal bleeding with clots
   • Diverticulitis
3. Ways to prevent and manage diverticular disease include:
   • Increasing dietary fiber to keep bowel movements soft
   • Avoiding stimulant laxatives
4. Diverticulitis is a serious complication in which pouches become inflamed or infected. Symptoms of diverticulitis include:
   • Pain in left lower abdomen
   • Fever
   • Sudden change in bowel habit
   See your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
5. Treatment of diverticulitis may include:
   • Antibiotics
   • Special feeding
   • Surgery