Contents
Are You at Risk for Diverticulitis? Key Factors You Need to Know
Published: Apr 05, 2024
Diverticulitis doesn't affect everyone equally. Knowing your risk factors can help you take steps to prevent this painful condition.
Age and Gender: The Uncontrollable Factors
Age is a significant risk factor for diverticulitis. The condition becomes more common as we get older, particularly after age 40. By age 60, about half of people have diverticulosis (pouches in the colon), which can lead to diverticulitis. Gender also plays a role, with women slightly more likely to develop the condition, especially at younger ages.
Lifestyle Factors: What You Can Change
Several lifestyle factors can increase your risk of diverticulitis. A low-fiber diet is a major culprit, as it can lead to constipation and increased pressure in the colon. Obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking are also associated with higher risk. Interestingly, regular exercise can lower your risk, even if you're overweight.
Medical Conditions and Medications
Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of diverticulitis. These include inflammatory bowel diseases, diabetes, and conditions that affect connective tissue, like Marfan syndrome. Some medications, particularly long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, may also increase risk. However, don't stop any prescribed medications without consulting your doctor.
Genetic and Environmental Factors
There may be a genetic component to diverticular disease, as it tends to run in families. Environmental factors also play a role. Diverticulitis is more common in developed countries with Western diets, suggesting that lifestyle and dietary habits are important. Some studies have also linked vitamin D deficiency to an increased risk of diverticulitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, although it's less common, diverticulitis can affect younger adults.
Stress isn't a direct cause, but it may exacerbate symptoms.
A high-fiber diet and healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk.
There may be a genetic component, but lifestyle factors are also important.
No, most people with diverticulosis never develop diverticulitis.
The Bottom Line
While some risk factors for diverticulitis are beyond our control, many can be modified through lifestyle changes and a healthy diet.
References
- Strate LL, Liu YL, Aldoori WH, Giovannucci EL. Physical activity decreases diverticular complications. Am J Gastroenterol 2009; 104:1221.
- Aune D, Sen A, Leitzmann MF, et al. Body mass index and physical activity and the risk of diverticular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Eur J Nutr 2017; 56:2423.
- Strate LL, Liu YL, Huang ES, et al. Use of aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increases risk for diverticulitis and diverticular bleeding. Gastroenterology 2011; 140:1427.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?