Diverticular disease is very common in elderly people, being present in up to 80 per cent of elderly individuals in Western countries. It is rare in people under 20 years of age and in developing countries.
Diverticular disease is thought to be caused by long-standing constipation.
The large intestine produces solid stool from the remains of food after all the nutrients have been absorbed in the small intestine. Many people have diverticular disease without knowing, as it does not usually cause symptoms, though occasionally it is associated with abdominal cramps and flatulence. When these complications occur the diverticulum may perforate, resulting in an abscess or a life-threatening infection in the abdomen. The symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea, and possibly a fever. Diverticular disease can be diagnosed by barium enema.