Colon diverticula are small dilatations (like pouches) that form in the walls of the colon. They are caused by increased pressure inside the intestine and weakness of the wall, just as might occur in a tire.
Diverticula are frequently located in the sigma, which is the final part of the colon before the rectum (in the lower left part of the abdomen). They are a very common finding and are present in more than half of the people over 60 years of age. A diet rich in fiber (fruit and vegetables) decreases the risk of having diverticula by improving bowel movements.
The existence of colon diverticula is not a problem in itself and many people do not experience any discomfort. In other patients there are discomforts of the “intestinal spasm” type similar to what occurs in irritable bowel syndrome. On rare occasions the diverticula become inflamed and produce abdominal pain and fever; in these cases special tests and specific treatment with antibiotics are necessary.
When episodes of inflammation are repeated or complications appear (such as perforation, hemorrhage or pus collections) surgery should be performed to remove the area of the colon where the diverticula are located.