Diverticula are pouches that develop in the large intestines. These balloon-like sacs may occur alone or in groups. Diverticula vary in size, but generally range between a tenth of an inch and one inch, according to the Merck Manuals. More than one diverticula is a condition referred to as diverticulosis. The diverticula may become inflamed and infected, referred to as diverticulitis. Between 10 and 25 percent of individuals who have diverticulosis develop diverticulitis, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Causes and Risk Factors
Diverticula occur in a naturally weak area of the colon and from spasms of the muscles in the intestine. The inflammation in the diverticula that becomes infected may occur due to an obstruction in the pouch. Risk factors for developing this condition include low dietary fiber intake, increased age, obesity and not enough physical exercise.
Symptoms
Diverticulosis may not cause any symptoms until an infection or inflammation begins in the sacs. Symptoms of diverticulitis include pain, bowel changes and gastrointestinal distress. The severe pain generally occurs in the lower left portion of the abdomen and begins suddenly, according to MayoClinic.com. Changes to bowel habits include developing constipation or diarrhea. Bowel movements may increase or decrease in frequency. Gastrointestinal distress associated with the condition includes bloating, nausea and vomiting. A fever may occur during a bout of diverticulitis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing diverticulitis and diverticulosis includes a physical examination to determine tenderness in the abdomen, blood tests and imaging tests. Blood results that indicate the presence of white blood cells signify an infection in the body. A physician can view diverticula on imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to diagnose the condition. Additional tests to confirm diverticulosis and diverticulitis include a barium enema and a colonoscopy, according to the Merck Manuals.
Treatments
Treatments for mild cases of diverticulitis include antibiotic therapy, pain medication and a liquid or a low-fiber diet. The diet allows the colon to rest while healing form the infection. Advanced or recurrent cases of diverticulitis may require hospitalization to monitor for complications of the condition. Individuals who develop complications from it may require surgery.
Complications
Complications associated with diverticulitis include an infection of the abdominal cavity, called peritonitis. Peritonitis occurs due to a rupture in the inflamed diverticula. This infection requires emergency medical attention. Diverticulitis may also cause bleeding from the rectum, colon blockage and abscesses. A fistula, or a connection between the colon and other tissues in the body, may occur due to the inflammation from the condition. The presence of diverticula may cause difficulty in diagnosing colon and rectal cancers, according to MayoClinic.com.
