Diverticulitis is a condition caused by swelling or perforation of pouches known as diverticula commonly found in the large intestine. According to the Mayo Clinic, while some cases of diverticulitis cause only mild symptoms that are easily treated, others cause severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea and bowel changes. If you experience any severe symptoms, contact your physician for prompt medical evaluation.
Fistulas
Inflammation caused by diverticulitis can cause the formation of abnormal channels called fistulas that connect the colon with other organs, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. For example, when a diverticulum ruptures, it may form a channel between the large intestine and the abdominal wall, vagina, uterus, small intestine, thigh or chest. Most commonly, they form between the colon and the bladder. Fistulas allow the passage of intestinal contents--including bacteria--to enter into these nearby organs and may lead to bladder, urinary tract or other serious infections.
Peritonitis
According to the Mayo Clinic, one or more large tears or ruptures in the diverticula can cause stool to leak from the colon into the abdominal cavity, leading to a condition known as peritonitis. Peritonitis is characterized by an inflammation of the membrane that lines the abdominal wall and organs called the peritoneum. This type of infection causes swelling and tenderness in the abdomen that may range from a dull ache to a severe, sharp pain. It can also cause fever, chills, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, abnormal thirst, limited urine output and an inability to have a bowel movement or pass gas, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Peritonitis is considered a medical emergency, so seek immediate care if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms.
Other Serious Symptoms
Tears or ruptures in the diverticula of the colon can lead to the formation of abscesses, or pus-filled pockets of infection, according to the National Institutes of Health. Inflammation of nearby organs including the digestive tract, uterus or bladder and rectal bleeding may also occur. Recurring episodes of diverticulitis can cause scarring and muscle thickening that lead to stricture of the colon, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. This may obstruct the passage of stool and/or gas through the large intestine and cause symptoms such as cramping abdominal pain that may come and go, vomiting, abdominal bloating and tenderness and fever. If left untreated, you may become malnourished and dehydrated. Constriction of the large intestine prevents oxygen from reaching intestinal tissues and can lead to tissue death or gangrene, which can increase the likelihood of tears in the abdominal wall and peritonitis. As these symptoms can become life-threatening, you should contact your doctor right away if you notice any of these signs.
