Diverticular Disease Specialist

What is diverticular disease?

Diverticular disease is the term used to describe three different conditions that affect the wall of your colon. Diverticula are tiny pockets or depressions in your bowel lining. 

Diverticulosis

This condition creates many diverticula that can range in size from around as big as a pea to significantly larger pockets. Around 20% of men and women with diverticulosis will experience complications.

Diverticular bleeding

Also known as rectal bleeding, this condition occurs when the small blood vessels near the diverticula are subjected to repeated injury. 

Diverticulitis

This condition occurs when inflammation and infection are present in one or more diverticula. Because waste can get trapped in the diverticula, bacteria can build up and cause infection. 

How do I know if I have diverticular disease? 

Diverticulosis does not cause symptoms, so many men and women are unaware they have the condition until complications arise or they are tested for another gastrointestinal problem. 

A barium enema, colonoscopy, or sigmoidoscopy can reveal signs of tissue abnormalities in your colon. Diverticulitis often leads to symptoms, which might include a combination of:

• Chills
• Fever
• Cramping
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation

Rectal bleeding is not always easy to detect, as trace amounts of blood may not cause concern. 

What are the risk factors for diverticular disease?

Anyone can develop diverticular disease, but there are certain risk factors that could mean you’re at a higher risk for the condition. These include:

• Age of 40 or above
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Certain medications, including opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Low-fiber diet high in animal fat
• Obesity

There are ways to reduce your risk for diverticular disease and many other common gastrointestinal issues. Create a plan to include more fiber in your daily diet. Supplements can help, but the best sources of dietary fiber are foods like legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. 

You need plenty of water to help move the fiber through your digestive tract, so set a goal to increase your daily hydration. You should also work toward increasing your daily activity levels. Even small improvements can make a big difference over time. 

If you’re concerned about diverticular disease and would like to come in for a professional screening, call Dr. Linden’s New York City office today to schedule an appointment. You can also try the easy online booking tool, which allows you to schedule from the comfort of home even after hours or on weekends and holidays.