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Diverticulis
Were you looking for information about Diverticulitis? Diverticulis is a common misspelling of diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis is a health condition that occurs when small, abnormal pouches (diverticula) that form in the colon become inflamed. Although it is not known what causes these pouches to form, it is believed that they may be connected with a low-fiber diet. Because fiber helps make stools soft and easy to pass, a high-fiber diet helps prevent constipation. Constipation makes the muscles strain to move stool that is too hard. It is the main cause of increased pressure in the colon. This excess pressure might cause the weak spots in the colon to bulge out and become diverticula.
(To read more, click Diverticulitis. This article takes a closer look at diverticulitis, including possible causes and information on how this condition is diagnosed. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD