Diverticular Disease

Many people have small pouches in their colon (large intestine), which bulge outward through weak spots, like an inner tube that pokes through weak places in a rubber tire. Each pouch is called a diverticulum. Pouches (plural) are called diverticula. The condition of having diverticula is called diverticulosis. About 10 percent of Americans over the age of 40 have diverticulosis. The condition becomes more common as people age. About half of all people over the age of 60 have diverticulosis. recommended reading These articles provide in-depth information and are written to help you make the best healthcare decisions for you and your loved ones. Patient Information • Diverticular Disease • Surgery for Diverticular Disease tests & procedures You doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests to evaluate your condition. • Abdominal X-Ray • Colonoscopy • Fecal Occult Blood Test • Medical History and Physical Exam for Diverticular Disease • MRI of the Abdomen • Sigmoidoscopy For other tests and diagnostic procedures use the section of this site called Medical Tests A to Z . RELATED TOPICS • Abdominal Pain, Age 12 and Older • Bowel Obstruction • Constipation, Age 12 and Older • Healthy Eating • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Rectal Problems medication center medication assistance This section provides you with an alphabetical listing of more than 1,000 medications, including prescription drugs and those you can purchase over-the-counter. Just "click on" your medications to learn what they are used for, how to take them, special precautions, and some of the possible side effects. You can choose your medication by brand name or generic name. • Medications A-Z If you are having difficulty paying for your medications you may qualify for financial assistance or free medications. Visit the Medication Assistance Center to learn about available medication and insurance programs. Don't let financial problems stop you from getting the treatment you need; there are resources and organizations that may be able to help you. additional resources This listing provides you with Internet sites that are sponsored by government agencies or are well-known and credible national organizations. • American College of Gastroenterology • American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons • MEDLINEplus—Dietary Fiber • MEDLINEplus—Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis • National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Surfing the Internet When looking at Internet sites, remember that the information can be sponsored by anyone. Take into account the sponsoring group or individual when gathering information or help. Be especially careful about giving out personal or financial information. Learn more about surfing the web: Guide to Healthy Web Surfing – a resource from the National Library of Medicine INFORMACIÓN EN ESPAÑOL • Dolor en el abdomen (barriga) - [Abdominal Pain] • Estreñimiento - [Constipation] Last modified on: 30 June 2015