Diverticulitis is the inflammation of one or more diverticula, or abnormal pouches, that are located in the wall of the intestine. The pouches are most often found in the large intestine, although they can form in any part of the digestive system, including the small intestine, esophagus and stomach, according to Mayo Clinic. The presence of pouches without inflammation is a condition called diverticulosis.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of diverticulitis is sudden, severe pain that most often occurs in the lower left side of the abdomen. In rare cases, the pain develops gradually over a course of several days. Other symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal tenderness, change in bowel habits, cramping, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea. Less common symptoms are bloating and bleeding from the rectum.
Causes
Although the exact cause of diverticular disease is unknown, the prominent theory is that the condition results as a complication of a low-fiber diet, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Fiber helps to keep the stool soft and easy to pass. A lack of fiber results in constipation, which causes strain during bowel movements. The strain can lead to weak spots in the intestine where pouches form. Diverticulitis occurs when bacteria or part of the stool gets caught in the pouches. A lack of exercise may also contribute to the development of the condition.
Tests
In order to give an initial diagnosis of diverticulitis, the doctor will perform a physical examination as well as a digital rectal examination. During the physical examination, the doctor will ask about family history and the symptoms that are present. During the rectal examination, the doctor will place a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for tenderness, blockage or blood, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The doctor may also ask for a stool sample to look for the presence of blood. Once diverticulitis is suspected, a colonoscopy will be performed. This involves the insertion of a camera into the rectum to get a visual look at the inside of the intestines. An ultrasound or a computerized topography scan may also be performed to get a picture of the inside of the intestines.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on minimizing symptoms. For mild cases of diverticulitis, the treatment is a series of antibiotics along with following a liquid diet until symptoms improve, usually within 3 days, according to Mayo Clinic. If the diverticulitis is accompanied by pain, pain medication will also be prescribed in order to lessen symptoms. If the case of diverticulitis is severe, hospitalization may be required. During hospitalization, antibiotics will be given intravenously until symptoms cease. In cases of recurring diverticulitis or if the diverticula have caused other problems, surgery that removes the diseased part of the colon will be performed.
Complications
Complications of diverticulitis can be severe. Peritonitis, which is an inflammation of the abdominal cavity, can occur. This condition develops when the diverticula rupture and spill intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, according to Mayo Clinic. Other complications include rectal bleeding, a partial or complete blockage of the colon, abscesses, or a fistula, which is an abnormal passageway between the intestine and abdominal wall.
