Diverticula are small pouches that form in weakened areas of the digestive tract. These pouches can form anywhere along the digestive tract, but most commonly affect the large intestine. The Mayo Clinic notes that diverticula are common, especially after the age of 40. The condition of having these diverticula present is referred to as diverticulosis. When one or more of the diverticula become inflamed, the condition becomes known as diverticulitis.
Cause
Although no specific cause of diverticulitis has been proven, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse notes that the most dominant theory is that a low-fiber diet causes the condition. Fiber helps to prevent constipation by making the stools soft and easy to pass. A diet low in fiber causes the stool to harden and remain stagnant in the intestines. Those with constipation consistently strain, which puts increased pressure on the colon. The increased pressure causes the weak and bulging spots known as diverticula. The diverticula become inflamed when bacteria or pieces of stool get caught in the pouches.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of diverticulitis are pain, change in bowel habits, abdominal tenderness, fever, nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea. The pain associated with diverticulitis is usually located in the lower left area of the abdomen. It may be sharp and sudden or come on gradually over a few days. Some people with diverticulitis may also experience abdominal bloating and bleeding from the rectum.
Treatment
Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the individual and the severity of the symptoms. Mild cases of diverticulitis can usually be managed with antibiotics and a liquid or low-fiber diet until the infection heals. Once symptoms begin to improve, fiber can gradually be added back into the diet. If pain is extremely bothersome, over-the-counter or prescription pain medications may be used to reduce the severity. Severe attacks may require intravenous antibiotics during hospitalization. If attacks of diverticulitis are recurrent and have caused significant damage to the intestines, surgery may be required to remove or repair damaged areas.
Lifestyle Changes
The Mayo Clinic recommends a number of lifestyle changes that may slow the progression of diverticulitis or prevent attacks of inflammation. One of the most important lifestyle changes is to include more fiber in the diet. It is generally recommended to aim for between 20 to 35g of fiber per day. An increase in fluid intake can also ensure that stools are soft and easy to pass. Regular exercise can keep the bowel functioning normally and reduce the amount of pressure that accumulates in the intestines. It is also important not to ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
Complications
Diverticulitis can lead to a number of complications that require immediate medical treatment. One of the most common complications is an infection called peritonitis, which is an inflammation of the abdominal lining. Peritonitis can occur if one of the diverticula ruptures and allows intestinal contents to spill into the abdominal cavity. Peritonitis is a medical emergency. Other complications that may develop are abscesses, intestinal blockages or fistulas, which are abnormal skin connections.
