10 Common Diverticulitis Symptoms You Should Know
Diverticulitis is a common health condition that affects the colon. It happens when small pouches called diverticula bulge out in the lining of the colon and get infected. This can cause various digestive problems and discomfort, often leading to severe complications if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss 10 common diverticulitis symptoms that you should know to stay informed about this condition.
1. Abdominal Pain
The most common symptom of diverticulitis is abdominal pain. Typically, the pain is felt in the lower left side of the abdomen. It can be either constant or intermittent, and may worsen when you move or press on the affected area. The pain can range from mild to severe, and may be accompanied by bloating and cramping.
2. Constipation or Diarrhea
Another common symptom of diverticulitis is a change in bowel habits. You may experience either constipation or diarrhea, or alternate between the two. This happens because the diverticula can obstruct the colon and affect the passage of stool.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
In some cases, diverticulitis can cause nausea and vomiting. This happens when the inflammation and infection spread to other parts of the digestive system and affect your body’s ability to absorb nutrients.
4. Fever
If you have diverticulitis, you may experience a fever. This is your body’s natural response to infection, and it can indicate that your immune system is trying to fight off the bacteria.
5. Increased Urination
Another unexpected symptom of diverticulitis is increased urination. This happens when the inflamed colon presses against your bladder and induces frequent urination.
6. Rectal Bleeding
Diverticulitis can cause rectal bleeding, which may be bright red or maroon in color. The bleeding happens when the inflamed diverticula rupture and release blood into the stool.
7. Fatigue and Weakness
If you have diverticulitis, you may feel fatigued and weak. This can happen because the infection can cause your body to work harder to fight off the bacteria, leading to exhaustion and lethargy.
8. Loss of Appetite
Another common symptom of diverticulitis is loss of appetite. This happens because the inflamed colon can affect your digestive system and make it difficult to eat or digest food.
9. Intolerance to certain Foods
If you have diverticulitis, you may notice that certain foods trigger your symptoms. This can include foods that are high in fiber or fat, as well as spicy or acidic foods.
10. Repeated Occurrences
Finally, if you have had diverticulitis once, you are more likely to experience it again. Repeated occurrences can lead to more severe complications, so it’s important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.
Conclusion
Diverticulitis is a common health condition that can cause various symptoms and discomfort. By knowing these 10 common symptoms, you can stay informed about this condition and seek medical attention if necessary. Remember to pay attention to your body and seek help if you experience any of these symptoms.
