What are the differences between three diverticular diseases?

Diverticular disease is a condition that affects the colon, or large intestine. It occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the wall of the colon. Diverticular disease can be classified into three main types:

1. Diverticulosis: This is the most common type of diverticular disease and is characterized by the presence of diverticula in the colon. Diverticulosis is usually asymptomatic, meaning it does not cause any symptoms. However, in some cases, it can cause mild abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation.

2. Diverticular bleeding: This occurs when the diverticula bleed, causing blood to appear in the stool. Diverticular bleeding is usually painless and self-limited, meaning it stops on its own. However, in some cases, it can be severe and require medical treatment.

3. Diverticulitis: This is the most serious type of diverticular disease and occurs when the diverticula become inflamed or infected. Diverticulitis can cause a range of symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, and constipation or diarrhea. In some cases, diverticulitis can lead to complications such as perforation (a hole in the colon), abscess formation, or bowel obstruction.

The main differences between the three diverticular diseases are the symptoms they cause and the severity of the condition. Diverticulosis is usually asymptomatic, diverticular bleeding causes painless rectal bleeding, and diverticulitis causes a range of symptoms including abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. Diverticulitis is the most serious type of diverticular disease and can lead to complications such as perforation, abscess formation, or bowel obstruction.