Recognizing the Symptoms of Diverticulitis: What You Need to Know
If you’re experiencing abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, nausea, or fever, it’s possible that you may have diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is a common condition that occurs when pouches in the colon, known as diverticula, become inflamed or infected. While the symptoms of diverticulitis may seem like they could be caused by a variety of other conditions, it’s important to recognize the signs early on in order to seek proper medical treatment and avoid potential complications.
Understanding Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is the infection or inflammation of diverticula in the colon. Diverticula are small, bulging pouches that can form in the lining of the digestive system. Though diverticula could develop anywhere in the digestive tract, they are most prevalent in the colon.
It is not clear why diverticula occur, but it typically arises as a result of weak spots in the colon’s muscular wall that are under constant pressure from waste material passages. This combination of weak areas and stress may cause the thin pouches to bulge through the colon’s muscular wall, forming diverticula.
When stool becomes lodged in a diverticulum and is unable to pass through, it can cause the surrounding area to become inflamed. This inflammation is diverticulitis.
Signs and Symptoms of Diverticulitis
The symptoms of diverticulitis can range in severity, and they often come on suddenly. Symptoms could include:
- Abdominal pain, especially in the lower left side
- Fever
- Bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation and diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
It’s important to remember that many of these symptoms may be similar to those of other digestive problems. However, if these symptoms persist or become severe, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine if diverticulitis is the cause.
Causes of Diverticulitis
The causes of diverticulitis are not completely clear, but it has been associated with:
- Age – Diverticulitis is more common in those over the age of 50.
- Family history – Diverticulitis is more prevalent among those who have a family history of the condition.
- Poor diet – A diet low in fiber and high in fat is linked to a higher risk of diverticulitis.
- Lifestyle choices – Obesity and smoking have both been linked to an increased risk of diverticulitis.
- Diverticulosis – A condition where diverticula form in the colon but do not become inflamed.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you’re experiencing symptoms associated with diverticulitis, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will perform an exam and may recommend additional tests such as a CT scan, ultrasound, or blood work to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options may include antibiotics, pain relief measures, changes in diet, or, in severe cases, hospitalization.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of diverticulitis, avoid self-diagnosing and seek medical assistance promptly. Early diagnosis of diverticulitis can help expedite the healing process and avoid serious complications.
