CARE ASSISTANT
CSDiverticular Disease (DD)
The formation of small pouches in the wall of the colon.
Small pockets (diverticula) form in the wall of the large intestine, mostly in its lower left part (sigmoid). A low-fibre diet over decades contributes.
Often without any symptoms (diverticulosis), they can also cause lower abdominal pain and irregular bowel habits, without acute inflammation.
More Informations
Small pouches on the colon, very common with age and usually harmless.
Definition
Diverticulosis is the formation of small pouches (diverticula) on the wall of the colon. It is very common after 60 and most often causes no symptoms.
Causes
A low-fibre diet, ageing of the bowel wall and chronic constipation favour their appearance.
Diagnosis
- Often found by chance during a colonoscopy or CT scan.
- Imaging in case of pain to check there is no inflammation.
Treatments
Without symptoms, no treatment is needed: a fibre-rich diet and good hydration are enough to keep stools soft. The doctor monitors and advises in case of pain.
Diverticular disease can alternate constipation and unpredictable loose stools. Flexi absorbent underwear lets you go out with confidence; a Combi brief with tabs suits heavier episodes.
Educational content written for families and caregivers. It does not replace a consultation: a doctor, a continence nurse or a physiotherapist makes the diagnosis and chooses the treatment.