What Is Diverticulosis?

Diverticulosis that has recurring episodes is also called “diverticular disease“. This is the condition of having diverticula in the colon, diverticula are small pockets that form on the outside wall of the large intestine most commonly in the descending Colon; however there can be pockets in the Ascending and Transverse Colon. These are formed in part due to weakness in the colon wall, we will get into a much more in-depth discussion on this matter later. The most common area is in the sigmoid colon, which is a common place for increased pressure. Before the age of 40 the chances of Diverticulosis are relatively uncommon with the occurrences increasing in incidence after that age.

Image via Wikipedia

When you first become aware of the term Diverticulosis, Diverticulitis and Diverticula they can be confusing at best, but it is important that you understand the meaning of each term. Understanding  the differences and what treatments are available for Diverticulosis vs Diverticulitis will give you a leg up on taking a role in enhancing your chances for recovery and maintaining your lifestyle.  As mentioned above a diverticula is technically is medical or biological term for an out pouching of a hollow (or a fluid filled) structure in the body. In the case of Diverticulosis these occur along the colon wall, in the case of Diverticulitis the are in the stages of leaking to rupture and become inflamed.