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Diverticular disease involves inflammation and infection of the abnormal pouches that form on the intestine wall. This is called diverticulitis. Symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating and constipation. The Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA) reports that one third of Australians over the age of 45 years have diverticular disease, whilst two thirds over the age of 85 years have this condition. Thus, this condition is very common and many are unaware they have it.
There is no clear cause for developing diverticular disease. However, a low fibre intake is an important risk factor for developing diverticular disease. This is because constipation can arise with a low fibre diet, resulting in harder stools that require more pressure to push them along the intestine. It is this added pressure which may cause these pouches to develop. Regular exercise and a high fluid intake may also be of benefit.
