Bleeding is the most common, out of all diverticulosis symptoms. Most often, the condition is diagnosed usually at a later stage. It is a condition that occurs in the colon. Diet and lifestyle changes can help you reduce diverticulosis symptoms. It is important that you start on them as early as you can to prevent serious complications.

Other diverticulosis symptoms include bloating, cramping after meals, and diarrhea or constipation. Some people also feel abdominal discomfort, pressure, or at times, sharp pain. Statistical findings show that about 10 percent of people age forty and 50 percent of people over age sixty suffer from diverticulosis.

There are complications which can arise from having diverticulosis symptoms. Strong contractions of the colon cause increased pressure, weakening the colon walls and pockets that form in the wall. These pockets can become infected or inflamed. A perforation in the pockets releases infection to the abdominal lining. Infection is a complication of diverticulum that is experienced by 10 to 25 percent of people with diverticulum. Other complications include tearing of the colon lining, intestinal obstruction, and abscesses.

Diverticulum is a condition that has been found to be common in the United States, England, Australia, and Canada. It is not common in Asia and Africa. Hence, it has been suggested that the reason for this is due to the diets of people from different cultures and countries.

A high fiber diet can also help reduce diverticulosis symptoms. High fiber helps to increase the bulk in the stool and thereby reducing the pressure within the colon.

Both insoluble fiber and soluble fiber should be included. Insoluble fiber is composed of plant cell walls. It is helpful in promoting proper digestion. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and lowers blood cholesterol and helps stabilize blood sugar.

Colon cleansing via herbs may be helpful. However, you would need to thread carefully as it is important to choose a colon cleansing process so that you do not cause more damage. Before starting on any colon cleansing program, it is best that you consult a holistic practitioner for assistance.

Exercise can also assist in the treatment of diverticulosis symptoms. Exercise helps to relieve stress and promotes the removal of waste from your body. However, it is important to find an appropriate exercise activity that fits your level of fitness. Do not go on one that is too strenuous for you and which may result in injury. Also, do not work on a full stomach. Should you feel the need to work off a huge meal, then take a leisurely stroll after eating. However, do not push yourself too hard while your body is working to digest its food.

In a nutshell, diet coupled with exercise can help reduce diverticulosis symptoms. Increasing the intake of fluids, along with refraining from consuming foods that cause you to be constipated can help you to reduce problems associated with diverticulosis. Fiber supplements may also help. However, in the case of very large or infected diverticula that produce dangerous amounts of bleeding, you may require surgery. Still, diet changes can once again help prevent more problems after surgery.