Diverticulitis is a condition of the colon in which small pouches form, called diverticula, that then become inflamed, causing pain and additional abdominal symptoms. Diverticulosis is a condition where the pouches have formed, but no active inflammation or infection is present. Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are considered the two diverticular diseases. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports that doctors are not sure what causes diverticulitis or its symptoms.
Pain Associated With Diverticulitis
According to MayoClinic.com, diverticulitis can cause pain that is sudden and severe in the lower, left side of the abdomen. The pain may also be mild at first and then increase in intensity, even changing over a course of days. In addition to abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness may also be experienced.
Dangerous Symptoms of Diverticulitis
If rectal bleeding is experienced as a possible symptom of diverticulitis, consultation with a health care professional is needed. The Cleveland Clinic reports that individuals with heavy and rapid bleeding may require further testing, such as angiography, a procedure that can locate the source of internal bleeding, to best treat the diverticulitis.
Additional Symtpoms of Diverticulitis
Along with abdominal pain and possibly abdominal tenderness, diverticulitis may also cause a change in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, fever and/or chills. Because these symptoms are similar to many other conditions, it's important to consult a health care provider to determine a correct diagnosis. If diverticulitis is suspected, a health care provider may perform certain tests, such as a blood test, collecting and testing a stool sample or a digital rectal exam to aid in diagnosing diverticulitis.
Treatment for Symptoms of Diverticulitis
According to the Cleveland Clinic, diverticulitis may resolve without medical treatment and adjustments to diet may be all that is needed. However, antibiotics are often required. Individuals with advanced infection may be hospitalized, or given IV antibiotic therapy. Some cases may require surgical intervention to prevent further infection and to control symptoms.
Prevention of Diverticulitis Symptoms
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports that half the people between the ages of 60 and 80 have diverticular disease and nearly all people over 80 have it. These statistics make prevention of diverticular diseases such as diverticulitis important. Individuals should eat foods that are high in fiber such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains as well as incorporate a fiber supplement into their diet to help prevent episodes of diverticulitis. Consult a health care provider before taking any dietary supplements and to get more information on healthy dietary fiber choices.
