# Diverticulosis --- **Diverticulosis** or **diverticular disease** is a condition of the [[intestines]] where small little sacs pooch out from the intestinal wall. Usually it's found in the [[large intestine|sigmoid colon]]. A single instance of this is called a **diverticulum**, the plural is **diverticula**. Although on its they're harmless, food or feces can get caught in them and brew up bacteria, causing a swelling of the lining, or **diverticulitis**. This is a potentially serious condition, especially if the diverticula rupture. ## Diverticulitis Diverticulitis- diverticulum inflamed, leading to perforation and potential complications such as obstruction, abscess, fistula, etc Can be in stages 0-4 stages 2-4 may require hospitilization ## Risk Factors Risk factors • Low fiber intake • Obesity • History of cigarette smoking • Family history • Regular use of NSAIDs and acetaminophen age (+65) ## Signs & Symptoms ' Chronic constipation ' Bloating ' LLQ pain ' Progress to peritonitis ## Diagnostic Tests Colonoscopy ' CT abd with contrast • CBC ' Abd xray free air under diaphragm with perforation ## Treatment • Management • Stage I-Gl rest, oral fluids clear to start, analgesics • 7-10 days antibiotics • Stage II-IV-abscess or peritonitis-hospitalized • Surgical Intervention • Acute peritonitis with complications-Immediate Surgery • Hartmann procedure-primary resection of diverticulitis with colostomy created • Complication related to amount of colon removed • Post-operative management IVF 2L per day Needs fiber- if soft food, try cooked vegetables and cooked oatmeal- to facilitate peristalsis Bulk-forming agents, psyllium • If have trigger foods, avoid them Colostomy education for home support ___