Understanding Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a condition that can develop in your digestive tract, typically in the large intestine, and can lead to discomfort and serious complications if it is not treated on time. To better understand diverticulosis you can get in contact with our Rego Park, NY, gastroenterologists at the Queens Boulevard Endoscopy Center.

Diverticula

Diverticula are small pouches that form on the sides of the intestine, usually along weak parts of the colon walls where the lining pushes outward.

These pouches can become inflamed and infected, causing diverticulitis, a more severe form of diverticulosis.

Possible Causes

There is not just one known cause of the condition, but many factors can increase your risk of developing it. These include age, genetics, and lifestyle, among others.

Lifestyle issues can refer to being overweight, physically inactive, smoking, and having an unhealthy diet.

Complications

Diverticulosis can lead to discomfort and also other more serious complications.

Diverticula can become infected and become filled with pus, forming an abscess. They can also form abnormal connections between the intestine and other organs, a condition known as a fistula.

The wall of the intestine can also become perforated, causing the contents of the colon to leak into the abdominal cavity. Inversely, another possible complication is a blockage of the intestine.

Diverticulosis Treatment in Rego Park, NY

To treat symptoms of diverticulosis, as a first step, your doctor may suggest changes to your diet to allow your digestive system to recover. These changes can include avoiding solid foods for a few days, until symptoms improve.

Medication can also be part of the treatment, especially to reduce pain and discomfort. Antibiotics may be prescribed if your doctor suspects an infection.

There may be other procedures that your gastroenterologist can recommend, depending on the severity of your condition, including surgery to drain an abscess, repair a fistula, or remove infected segments of the intestine.

If you are concerned about diverticulosis you can schedule a consultation in Rego Park, NY, with our gastroenterologists at the Queens Boulevard Endoscopy Center by dialing (718) 406-8000.