Diverticular Disease and Diverticulitis

Diverticular Disease is a common disorder of the digestive system. It happens when small bulges or pockets form in the wall of the large intestine (also known as the bowel or colon). These pockets are called diverticula.

Diverticular disease is very common. For most people, it doesn’t cause any symptoms. What causes diverticular disease isn’t known but there is a link with inadequate fibre intake and constipation. A high-fibre diet, with exercise and a good fluid intake helps to prevent constipation and the formation of diverticula.

Diverticulosis vs Diverticulitis

Diverticulosis is when you have bulging pouches (diverticula) in the lining of the bowel wall. Most people won’t experience any symptoms. If a lot of diverticula develop, it can affect the function of the bowel and cause symptoms such as: abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. To manage diverticulosis, it is recommended to gradually increase fibre intake to help improve bowel habits.

Diverticulitis is different to diverticulosis. Diverticulitis is when the diverticula become infected and inflamed which is very painful and can result in:

·         sharp intense pain in the abdomen

·         nausea and vomiting

·         fever cramping and bloating

·         loss of appetite

·         blood in the stool

Diverticulitis is often a medical emergency and should be investigated by your doctor. Diverticulitis is usually treated with antibiotics and some people may never have another flare up. During an acute attack of diverticulitis, a low-fibre diet may be recommended. Once your symptoms improve, you can gradually bring solid food back to your diet and slowly increase fibre intake.

It is recommended to see a dietitian if you have been diagnosed with Diverticular disease or have had a Diverticulitis flare up in order to support you with:

·         Managing the symptoms of Diverticular Disease

·         To advise on the gradual increase in fibre for the prevention of a diverticulitis flare up in the future

·         To help ensure you're meeting your individual nutrient requirements