Advances in Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Endoscopy

Diverticular Disease

Diverticulosis is a condition that occurs when small pouches, or sacs, form and push outward through weak spots in the wall of your colon. These pouches are most common in the lower part of your colon, called the sigmoid colon. One pouch is called a diverticulum. Multiple pouches are called diverticular. Most people with diverticulosis do not have symptoms or problems. When diverticulosis does cause symptoms or problems, doctors call this diverticular disease. For some people, diverticulosis causes symptoms such as changes in bowel movement patterns or pain in the abdomen. Diverticulosis may also cause problems such as diverticular bleeding and diverticulitis

• colonoscopy to examine the inside of your GI tract


• stool test to check for infections, such as Clostridium difficile


• urine test to check for infections


• blood tests to check for signs of inflammation, anemia, or kidney or liver problems


• pelvic exam to rule out gynecological problems in women