Diverticulaare small pockets that can form in thecolon (large intestine)in areas of intestinal wall weakness.
They can cause bleeding.
They don’t cause other symptoms unless they become infected and/or inflamed.
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When this happens it is known as diverticulitis.
Even with symptoms, most cases of diverticulitis can be treated at home.
However, complications can occur, sometimes requiring treatment in the hospital.
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Symptoms of Diverticulitis
Abdominal pain is the most commonsymptom of diverticulitis.
It is often chronic and can go on for several days.
The pain usually occurs after eating.
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In some cases, the pain can affect the right or both sides of the abdomen.
This may occur if there are diverticula in other parts of the colon.
The pain of diverticulitis usually occurs in the lower part of the abdomen.
Less common symptoms of diverticulitis can include:
Diverticulitis and Diverticulosis: What’s the Difference?
Diverticulosis is when small pouches form on the inside of your colon, where its walls have become weaker.
Diverticulitis is a condition that takes place if these pockets become infected or inflamed.
Causes of Diverticulitis
The causes of diverticulitis can vary.
Genetics may play a role in up to 50% of diverticulitis cases.
In some cases, as with older age or genetics, a risk factor can’t be changed.
Other factors,dietor smoking, can be changed through lifestyle choices.
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Complications
While they are not common,several different complicationsmay occur along with diverticulitis.
Abscess
Anabscessis a bacterial infection that causes a pocket of pus to form.
Abscesses associated with diverticulitis may cause fever and abdominal pain.
They are treated with antibiotics and/or drainage.
Perforation
Aperforationis a hole in the colon.
Bowel Obstruction
Abowel obstructionis a blockage in the intestine that prevents the passage of stool.
As you recover, you may change to high-fiber foods to prevent further episodes of acute diverticulitis.
Surgical treatment will depend on the specific situation.
A small abscess may not require surgery but fistula because of diverticulitis typically is treated with surgery.
So are cases in which people have become unstable because of severesepsis(infection).
People with recurring painful episodes due to chronic diverticulitis also may benefit from surgery.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Abdominal pain should prompt a call to your healthcare provider.
Even if your diverticulitis symptoms feel like a flare-up that you’ve had before, call your healthcare provider.
Prevention
High-quality diet choices may help to prevent diverticulitis.
For example,red meat consumptionmay increase the risk of diverticulitis.
Aspirin used to prevent cardiovascular disease is an exception.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
There are many causes, including exercise, smoking cessation, and dietary changes, that you could control.
Other risk factors, such as an older age, cannot be changed.
Your healthcare provider or agastroenterologist(digestive system specialist) can discuss your treatment options with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s possible.
There are other medical conditions that can be mistaken for diverticulitis because of similar symptoms.
These conditions includeirritable bowel syndrome,inflammatory bowel disease,appendicitis, andcholecystitis(gallbladder inflammation).
Many people with uncomplicated diverticulitis will see their symptoms go away in about a weekwith self-care.
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