Staying Healthy

Battle of the bulges

By , Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
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Take these steps to avoid ailments that afflict your colon.

Diverticulosis occurs when tiny bulges (called diverticula) form in weak areas of your colon’s inner wall. These bulges occur naturally over time, but certain conditions and lifestyle habits can accelerate the process. For instance, people with frequent constipation or irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to develop diverticulosis, especially at an earlier age.

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About the Author

photo of Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s … See Full Bio
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As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

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Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis

In this guide, we will explain how diverticular disease can appear with little or no warning. We’ll show you how to tell when you may be having symptoms and give you steps you can take to keep the problem from developing in the walls of your colon in the first place, including tips on maintaining a healthy, high-fiber diet. We’ll explore the more common diverticulosis, then go into detail about the more serious diverticulitis, offering insight into treatments for both, as well as self-help and prevention strategies

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