Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition characterized by inflammation or infection of small pouches called diverticula that can form in the walls of your intestines, particularly the colon. The symptoms of diverticulitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but they may include:

1. Abdominal Pain: The most common symptom of diverticulitis is abdominal pain, typically localized in the lower left side of the abdomen. The pain may be constant or intermittent and can range from mild to severe.
2. Fever: A low-grade fever is common in diverticulitis, especially if there is an infection present.
3. Changes in Bowel Habits: You may experience changes in your bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between the two.
4. Nausea and Vomiting: Some people with diverticulitis may experience nausea and vomiting, especially if the condition is severe.
5. Abdominal Tenderness: Your abdomen may feel tender to the touch, especially in the area where the diverticula are located.
6. Bloating and Gas: Some people with diverticulitis may experience bloating and increased gas production.
7. Rectal Bleeding: In some cases, diverticulitis can cause rectal bleeding, which may manifest as bright red blood in the stool or on toilet paper.
8. Urinary Symptoms: In rare cases, diverticulitis can cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination or burning with urination.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of diverticulitis, as it can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

What are the causes of diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis occurs when small, bulging pouches called diverticula that have formed in the lining of your digestive system, most commonly in the colon, become infected or inflamed. The exact cause of diverticulitis is not entirely understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development, including:

1. Low-Fiber Diet: A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation, which can increase pressure in the colon and contribute to the formation of diverticula.
2. Age: The risk of developing diverticulitis increases with age, with the condition being more common in older adults.
3. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing diverticulitis.
4. Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of diverticulitis.
5. Smoking: Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.
6. Genetics: There may be a genetic component to the development of diverticulitis, as it tends to run in families.
7. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids, may increase the risk of diverticulitis.
8. Connective Tissue Disorders: Disorders that affect the connective tissue, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, may increase the risk of diverticulitis.
9. Previous Diverticulosis: If you have diverticulosis (the presence of diverticula without inflammation or infection), you are at a higher risk of developing diverticulitis.
10. Microbiome Imbalance: Disruption of the normal balance of bacteria in the colon (intestinal microbiome) may play a role in the development of diverticulitis.

It’s important to note that while these factors are believed to contribute to the development of diverticulitis, not everyone with diverticula will develop diverticulitis, and the condition can occur without an identifiable cause.

What is the treatment for diverticulitis?

The treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases of diverticulitis can often be treated at home with rest, dietary changes, and medication, while more severe cases may require hospitalization and possibly surgery.

1. Antibiotics: If the diverticulitis is caused by an infection, antibiotics are usually prescribed to help clear the infection. The choice of antibiotic depends on the severity of the infection and other factors.
2. Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) may help relieve mild pain. In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication.
3. Dietary Changes: Initially, a clear liquid diet may be recommended to give your digestive system a chance to rest. As you start to feel better, you can gradually add low-fiber foods and then eventually high-fiber foods back into your diet. Fiber helps soften and add bulk to your stool, which can help prevent constipation and reduce pressure in your colon.
4. Hydration: It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if you’re experiencing diarrhea.
5. Avoiding Certain Foods: During a diverticulitis flare-up, you may be advised to avoid foods that can irritate your digestive system, such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, and certain raw fruits and vegetables.
6. Surgery: In some cases, especially if you have recurrent episodes of diverticulitis or complications such as abscesses, fistulas, or bowel obstruction, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the colon. Surgery may also be recommended if you have a severe case of diverticulitis that does not respond to other treatments.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding treatment and follow-up care. Complications of diverticulitis can be serious, so it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, or other concerning symptoms.

What foods are good for diverticulitis?

A diet high in fiber is generally recommended for people with diverticulitis, as it can help soften the stool and reduce pressure in the colon, which may help prevent flare-ups. Some good sources of fiber include:

1. Fruits: Apples, pears, berries, and bananas are good sources of soluble fiber.
2. Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, squash, and spinach are good sources of fiber.
3. Whole grains: Whole wheat bread, brown rice, oats, and quinoa are good sources of fiber.
4. Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are good sources of fiber.
5. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are good sources of fiber.

It’s important to increase fiber intake gradually to avoid gas, bloating, and other digestive issues. In addition to fiber, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It’s also a good idea to avoid foods that can irritate the digestive system, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine, especially during a flare-up.