What are the symptoms of diverticulosis?
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Symptoms of Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis is a condition characterized by the formation of small pouches, known as diverticula, in the lining of the colon. While many individuals with diverticulosis remain asymptomatic, a subset of patients may experience various gastrointestinal symptoms. This article synthesizes the key symptoms associated with diverticulosis based on recent research findings.
Common Symptoms of Diverticulosis
Abdominal Pain and Discomfort
One of the most frequently reported symptoms among individuals with diverticulosis is abdominal pain. This pain is often localized to the lower left quadrant of the abdomen and can vary in intensity. The pain may be constant or intermittent and is sometimes exacerbated by movement2 4 9.
Altered Bowel Habits
Patients with diverticulosis often experience changes in their bowel habits. These changes can include both diarrhea and constipation. Diarrhea is particularly common and may be accompanied by loose stools, urgency, and a high frequency of bowel movements1 3 6. Conversely, some patients may report constipation or a combination of both diarrhea and constipation2 4.
Mucus in Stools
Another symptom associated with diverticulosis is the presence of mucus in the stools. This can be an indicator of inflammation or irritation within the colon1.
Bloating and Nausea
Bloating and nausea are also common complaints among individuals with diverticulosis. These symptoms can contribute to a general feeling of discomfort and may be related to the altered bowel habits and abdominal pain experienced by these patients3 4.
Diarrhea-Predominant IBS
In older adults, particularly those over the age of 60, diverticulosis has been associated with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This condition is characterized by chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain, which can significantly impact the quality of life1.
Less Common Symptoms
Rectal Bleeding
While not as common, some patients with diverticulosis may experience rectal bleeding. This symptom should prompt further evaluation to rule out other potential causes of bleeding2.
Urinary Symptoms
Due to the proximity of the colon to the bladder, some patients with diverticulosis may experience urinary symptoms such as increased frequency, urgency, or discomfort during urination. In severe cases, the presence of a colovesical fistula can lead to symptoms such as fecaluria (feces in the urine) or pneumaturia (air in the urine)2.
Conclusion
Diverticulosis can present with a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild abdominal discomfort to more severe gastrointestinal disturbances. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, mucus in stools, bloating, and nausea. In older adults, diverticulosis may also be associated with diarrhea-predominant IBS. While many individuals with diverticulosis remain asymptomatic, those who do experience symptoms should seek medical evaluation to manage their condition effectively.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Symptomatic Diverticulosis Is Characterized By Loose Stools.
Diverticulosis is a common condition with a higher prevalence in older adults, and is associated with loose stools, abdominal pain, and diarrhea-predominant IBS.
Observational StudyAcute Colonic Diverticulitis
Adherence to a healthy lifestyle, including high fiber intake, low red meat intake, obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking, can potentially prevent 50% of diverticulitis cases.
Rigorous JournalReview article: the current and evolving treatment of colonic diverticular disease
Background Formation of colonic diverticula, via herniation of the colonic wall, is responsible for the development of diverticulosis and consequently diverticular disease. Diverticular disease can be associated with numerous debilitating abdominal and gastrointestinal symptoms (including pain, bloating, nausea, constipation and diarrhoea).
Highly CitedChanging views on diverticular disease: impact of aging, obesity, diet, and microbiota
Diverticular disease is influenced by aging, obesity, smoking, and diet, with factors like neuromuscular changes, diet, and dietary changes potentially causing symptoms.
Rigorous JournalPerception and the Origin of Symptoms in Diverticular Disease
Diverticular disease can cause altered bowel habit and abdominal pain in up to 20% of patients, with various theories explaining the development of these symptoms.
Diverticulosis, Symptoms and Colonic Inflammation: A Population-Based Colonoscopy Study
In a general community sample, both asymptomatic and symptomatic diverticulosis are not associated with colonic mucosal inflammation.
Observational Study
Very Rigorous JournalNeurite outgrowth in symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease
Enteric neuro-plasticity, including increased macrophage infiltration, may underlie the development of symptoms in diverticular disease.
Very Rigorous JournalColonic Diverticula Are Not Associated With Mucosal Inflammation or Chronic Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Colonic diverticulosis is not associated with mucosal inflammation or chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, and even in patients with symptoms, there was no evidence of inflammation.
Observational StudyDiverticulosis and Diverticulitis.
Increasing fiber intake may help prevent future episodes of diverticulitis, while antibiotics may not be as necessary for mild to moderate cases.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedDiverticulosis today: unfashionable and still under-researched
Diverticulosis is a widespread disease with complex causes and symptoms, and current treatments with rifaximin and mesalazine show promise for treating symptoms, but no effective prevention or recurrence treatment exists.
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