Diverticula are areas in the wall of the intestine that bulges due to a weakness. This condition is a common condition associated with aging. About half of the population older than 60 is affected with diverticulosis, according to Medline Plus. Diverticulitis is an inflammation and infection of diverticula in the large intestine. Symptoms of diverticulitis include fever, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Complications of the condition may resolve spontaneously or may require surgery to treat the symptoms.
Abscess
Pus may collect in the pockets formed by the diverticula. The collection of pus is called an abscess. Antibiotics help treat the abscess, but draining it with a needle may be necessary. Depending on the severity of the abscess, a surgeon performs surgery to remove that section of the colon, referred to as a bowel resection.
Fistula
A fistula may occur as a complication associated with diverticulitis. Areas of bowel may begin to connect to other areas of intestine or to abdominal organs due to the inflammation associated with the condition. This abnormal connection between the tissues is referred to as a fistula. The only treatment option is surgical repair.
Perforation
During a bout of diverticulitis, the wall of the intestine may create a small tear or hole called a perforation. Once bowel perforation occurs, contents of the intestine can leak into the abdomen, according to the Mayo Clinic. This leakage causes a massive infection and inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity, called peritonitis. Peritonitis requires immediate medical care for treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.
Bleeding
Bleeding may occur with diverticulitis. Small blood vessels in the areas of inflammation can rupture and cause the bleeding. Any blood in the stool or on toilet paper should be evaluated by a physician. The rectal bleeding associated with diverticulitis can resolve itself but may require medical assistance.
Bowel Obstruction
Diverticulitis may create a blockage in the intestines, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Symptoms associated with a bowel obstruction include abdominal pain and distension as well as cramping, diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting. A tube placed through the nose and into the stomach helps remove excess fluid and relieve the obstruction. If this treatment fails, a surgeon may need to perform surgery to fix the obstruction.
