Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a fairly common digestive issue that can cause sudden, sharp pain and a lot of discomfort. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can make a big difference in managing it effectively.

What is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis occurs when the small, bulging pouches, or diverticula, that form in the lining of your digestive system become inflamed or infected. These pouches are most commonly found in the colon.

The presence of the pouches themselves is a condition called diverticulosis. Diverticulosis is very common, especially as people age, and often causes no problems.

When one or more of these pouches tear, become inflamed, or get infected, the condition progresses to diverticulitis. This can range from a mild infection that responds to rest and antibiotics to a severe infection or perforation requiring surgery.

Causes and Risk Factors

Diverticulitis develops when the diverticula tear, resulting in inflammation or infection. While doctors aren't certain what causes the initial formation of these pouches, it is often linked to high pressure within the colon.

Several factors may increase your risk of developing diverticulitis:

  • Age: The incidence of diverticulitis increases significantly with age, particularly after age 40.
  • Diet: A diet low in fiber and high in refined carbohydrates and animal fats is strongly associated with the condition. Low fiber intake can lead to constipation, which increases pressure in the colon.
  • Lack of Exercise: Regular physical activity appears to lower the risk.
  • Certain Medications: Several drugs are associated with an increased risk, including steroids, opioids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.

Symptoms of Diverticulitis

The symptoms of diverticulitis can appear suddenly and may vary in severity depending on the extent of the infection.

Common signs include:

  • Abdominal Pain: The most consistent symptom is persistent pain, usually on the lower left side of the abdomen.
  • Fever and chills.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive upset often accompanies the pain.
  • Change in Bowel Habits: You may experience constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea.
  • Abdominal Tenderness: The belly may feel tender to the touch.

If you have severe pain, fever, or rectal bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosing Diverticulitis

Because abdominal pain can indicate many different problems, accurate diagnosis is essential.

Diagnostic procedures typically include:

Checking the abdomen for tenderness.

To check for signs of infection (high white blood cell count) and rule out other issues like urinary tract infections.

This is the primary tool for diagnosing diverticulitis. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis can visualize inflamed pouches and confirm the severity of the infection.

To rule out infection in people who have diarrhea.

While not typically performed during an acute attack (due to the risk of perforation), a colonoscopy is often recommended about 6 to 8 weeks after recovery. This ensures the colon has healed and rules out colon cancer, which can mimic symptoms of diverticulitis.

Treatment and Management Options

Treatment depends on the severity of your signs and symptoms and whether you have developed complications.

Mild Diverticulitis:

Many cases can be treated at home with rest and dietary changes.

Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection, although recent guidelines suggest they may not be needed for very mild cases.

You may need to stick to a clear liquid diet for a few days to allow your bowel to rest and heal, gradually reintroducing solid foods as symptoms improve.

Over-the-counter pain reducers like acetaminophen.

For Severe or Complicated Diverticulitis:

If you have a severe attack, complications like an abscess, or other health issues, you may need hospitalization.

Stronger medication delivered directly into a vein.

If an abscess has formed, a tube may be inserted to drain the fluid.

In cases where there are complications such as a bowel perforation, abscess, fistula, obstruction, or multiple recurrent episodes, surgery may be necessary to remove the diseased part of the colon.

Find Treatment for Diverticulitis in Westlake or Brooklyn, OH

Managing diverticulitis requires expert guidance to prevent future flare-ups and ensure your digestive system stays healthy. North Shore Gastroenterology is here to provide the personalized care and nutritional advice you need.

Contact us today at (440) 808-1212 or request an appointment online to schedule a visit.