Imagine waking up with sharp pain in your abdomen that just won’t go away. For many, this is how diverticulitis makes its presence known. It’s a condition that can strike suddenly, turning seemingly harmless pockets in your colon into the source of serious discomfort. While diverticulitis may sound like an obscure illness, it’s actually quite common, especially as we age.
But what exactly causes diverticulitis, and how can you manage or prevent it from disrupting your life? Let’s dive into the basics of diverticulitis, including its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments.
What Is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is a condition that affects the digestive system, specifically the colon. It occurs when small pouches, known as diverticula, form in the walls of the colon.
These pouches are often harmless and cause no symptoms — a condition called diverticulosis. However, if these diverticula become inflamed or infected, diverticulitis develops, which can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms that can hinder daily life.
