From the Research
Diverticulosis causes small pouches called diverticula to form in the wall of the colon, particularly in the sigmoid colon, and can lead to complications such as diverticulitis, which may require antibiotic treatment or surgery. The primary causes of diverticulosis include a low-fiber diet, aging, and genetic factors that may predispose some individuals to weaker colon tissue. Obesity, physical inactivity, and certain medications like NSAIDs and steroids can also contribute to diverticulosis development.
Key Factors
- A low-fiber diet can lead to harder stools and increased pressure during bowel movements, contributing to diverticulosis development 1.
- Aging can cause the colon wall to naturally weaken over time, making it more susceptible to diverticulosis 1.
- Genetic factors may predispose some individuals to weaker colon tissue, increasing their risk of developing diverticulosis 1.
Prevention and Treatment
- Maintaining a high-fiber diet (25-30 grams daily) can help reduce pressure on the colon wall and prevent diverticulosis development 1.
- Staying well-hydrated, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce the risk of diverticulosis 1.
- Antibiotic treatment, such as ceftriaxone and metronidazole, may be necessary for complicated diverticulitis, and has been shown to be non-inferior to piperacillin/tazobactam in terms of outcomes 2.
- Surgery may be required in severe cases of diverticulitis or for patients who do not respond to antibiotic treatment 1.
Recent Findings
- A recent study found that amoxicillin-clavulanate may be a suitable alternative to metronidazole-with-fluoroquinolone for outpatient diverticulitis treatment, with no significant differences in outcomes and a lower risk of fluoroquinolone-related harms 3.
- Another study found that ceftriaxone and metronidazole was non-inferior to piperacillin/tazobactam for treating complicated diverticulitis, with no significant differences in 30-day readmission or all-cause mortality 2.