Diverticulosis and Diverticuli... Health Article

Prognosis

The prognosis for people with diverticula is excellent, with only 20% of such patients ever seeking any medical help for their condition.

While diverticulitis can be a difficult and painful disease, it is usually quite treatable. Prognosis is worse for individuals who have other medical problems, particularly those requiring the use of steroid medications, which increase the chances of developing a serious infection. Prognosis is also worse in the elderly.

Prevention

While there is no absolutely certain way to prevent the development of diverticula, it is believed that high-fiber diets are of help. Foods that are recommended for their high fiber content include whole grain breads and cereals, and all types of fruits and vegetables. Most experts suggest that individuals take in about 0.71–1.23 oz (20–35 g) of fiber daily. If this is not possible to achieve through a person's diet, there are fiber products which can be mixed into 8 oz (.237 l) of water or juice, and which provide about 0.13–19 oz (4–6 g) of fiber.

BOOKS

Isselbacher, Kurt J., and Alan Epstein. "Diverticular, Vascular, and Other Disorders of the Intestine and Peritoneum." In Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, ed. Anthony S. Fauci, et al. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1997.

PERIODICALS

Cerda, James J., et al. "Diverticulitis: Current Management Strategies." Patient Care 31, no. 12 (15 July 1997): 170+.

Cunningham, Mark A., et al. "Medical Versus Surgical Management of Diverticulitis in Patients Under Age 40." American Journal of Surgery 174, no. 6 (Dec. 1997): 733+.

"Diet and Diverticular Disease in Men." Nutrition Research Newsletter 14, no. 2 (Nov. 1994): 28.

"Diet for Diverticulosis." Consumer Reports on Health 8, no. 11 (Nov. 1996): 132.

"Keeping Diverticulosis Silent." Berkeley Wellness Letter 12, no. 4 (Jan. 1996): 6+.

Munson, Marty, and Teresa Yeykal. "Outrun Trouble: Running and Bran Cereal in the Prevention of Diverticular Disease." Prevention, 47, no. 9 (Sept. 1995): 38+.

ORGANIZATIONS

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 2 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892-3570. (800) 891-5389. <http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/digest/nddic.htm>.

Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD