Diverticula are small pouches in the digestive system that bulge in weak spots in the intestine. These pouches may form anywhere in the digestive system, such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine--the most common spot. Many people, especially after the age of 40, have these pouches, a condition called diverticulosis. Those with diverticulosis do not experience any discomfort or symptoms, according to the National Institutes of Health. When one or more diverticula become inflamed or infected, the condition is called diverticulitis. Symptoms of diverticulitis include nausea, severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and change in bowel habits. Uncontrolled diverticulitis can cause serious complications in the affected individual.
Abscess
When diverticulitis causes an infection that is not treated, an abscess forms. An abscess is a localized area of pus that causes swelling and destroys intestinal tissue. If the abscess is small and remains contained in the colon wall, it can usually be treated with a round of antibiotics. In the case of a larger abscess, or if a small abscess does not clear up after use of antibiotics, draining may be necessary. A doctor will insert a catheter through the skin directly into the abscess with the aid of a needle. The pus drains through the catheter.
Perforations and Peritonitis
Perforations, or holes in the intestinal wall, can develop as a result of infected diverticula. These perforations allow pus to leak out of the colon, which results in an abscess or inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity, a condition known as peritonitis. Symptoms of peritonitis include nausea, vomiting, fever, and severe abdominal tenderness. This complication is a medical emergency and requires immediate surgery, according to Mayo Clinic. The surgeon will clean the abdominal cavity and remove the damaged part of the colon. Peritonitis can be fatal if left untreated.
Fistula
A fistula is an abnormal connection between two organs. When damaged tissues come into contact with each other during an infection, it is possible for the tissues to stick together and heal this way. If that happens, a fistula is formed. With diverticulitis, the colon's tissue sticks to the bladder, small intestine or skin, with the bladder and colon connection being the most common. A fistula can cause infection of the urinary tract, and must be treated with surgery.
Intestinal Obstruction
Natural scarring that occurs as a result of diverticulitis can cause total or partial blockage in the colon. Because of this blockage, bowel contents can not be moved properly by the colon. If a complete blockage occurs, an emergency surgery is necessary. A partial blockage must also be corrected with surgery; however, it is not considered as dire.
Rectal Bleeding
Although rare, rectal bleeding can occur as a result of diverticulitis. The rectal bleeding is a result of the rupture of a blood vessel in a diverticulum that has weakened. Blood will be seen in the toilet or the stool and typically occurs without warning or pain, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. The bleeding can be severe or may stop by itself and not require any treatment; however, a doctor should be seen immediately if there is any amount of rectal bleeding. If bleeding does not stop on its on, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected area of the colon.
