Diverticular disease is a common condition that affects the digestive system. This occurs when the small protrusions or pockets (usually called diverticula) form in the colon wall. Diverticular disease is a common disease suffered, but most people who experience it do not feel any symptoms. This is becoming increasingly common disease suffered when a person is getting older. Diverticular disease occurs when a small area of the intestinal lining weakens and bulges or pockets formed over the years. This is known as diverticular. Diverticula are mostly found at the bottom of the lower colon though in some people found in the lower part of their intestines.
There are three terms that are typically used for diverticular disease, namely:
- Diverticulosis. Many people suffer from diverticula without feeling anything symptoms. Diverticula can only be seen when done scans and tests for this problem. Diverticular without symptoms commonly known as diverticulosis.
- Diverticular. If there are symptoms of diverticula, this is known as diverticular disease.
- Diverticulitis. If the diverticula become inflamed and cause disease, the condition is known as diverticulitis.
The symptoms of diverticular disease are usually felt in the lower left abdomen. The pain can occur after eating. May disappear after flatulence or bowel movements. Other symptoms include:
- bloating
- constipation
- diarrhea
- Persistent abdominal pain and getting worse that starts from below the navel and then move to the lower left side (although it could appear on the right for Asians because of genetic differences)
- fever (high temperature)
- frequent urination and sometimes painful
- changes in bowel habits
- nausea and vomiting
Nursing Diagnosis for Diverticulitis
- Risk for Impaired Tissue Integrity: peristomal are related to sensitivity to the materials used.
- Risk for Impaired Tissue Integrity: stoma related to inaccuracies size of the tools used, resulting in damage to circulation.
- Bowel incontinence.
- Knowledge Deficit related to the surgical procedure, routine preoperative and postoperative care.
- Chronic pain related to obstruction.
