Small pouches can form in any portion of the digestive tract, but they are most common in the large intestine. They are theorized to form due to the pressure present in the digestive tract. These pouches can become inflamed, a condition known as diverticulitis. The National Institutes of Health explains that factors commonly involved in the development of diverticulitis include a low-fiber diet and advancing age. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and rest, while surgery is occasionally needed.
Abdominal Pain
The most common sign of diverticulitis is pain in the left, lower part of the abdomen. It can occur anywhere in the abdomen, however. This area may seem tender when the area is pressed lightly as the patient is lying down. The pain may appear suddenly and be unrelenting or it may come and go at first, but eventually become constant as the area becomes more inflamed.
Fever
A low-grade fever of 101 degrees or less often accompanies diverticulitis. The patient may experience chills and feel miserable. Occasionally the fever may become higher. The heart rate may be elevated due to the fever.
Nausea
Nausea and vomiting are signs of diverticulitis. According to the Mayo Clinic, diarrhea and constipation can also occur. A history of constipation evokes suspicion of oncoming diverticulitis.
Swollen Abdomen
The stomach of a patient with diverticulitis may seem swollen, and she may feel bloated. The appetite may be poor due to the bloating. These signs can indicate an abscess or free air in the abdomen related to a dangerous perforation of the intestinal wall.
Rectal Bleeding
Diverticulitis can cause bleeding that eventually becomes apparent either by overt blood or bloody stool. Massive bleeding can quickly become life-threatening, but this is a rare occurrence. Other manifestations of bleeding include lowered blood pressure upon standing and dehydration. A more common circumstance is light bleeding, found only when the stool is checked for hidden blood.
Increased White Blood Cells
A laboratory test will indicate an elevated white blood cell count when a patient has diverticulitis. This can make her feel ill and need extra rest.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Diverticulitis
- Medline Plus: Diverticulitis
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing;" Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
