Diverticular Disease

Many individuals develop one or more small pouches or sacs in the lining of the large intestine or colon. A single pouch is called a diverticulum whereas multiple pouches are called diverticula.

In many cases an individual is unaware that these sacs or pouches have developed due to the fact that they rarely cause any noticeable symptoms and are only discovered during a routine screening test or when undergoing testing for another medical condition. When these pouches are discovered by a physician, the patient is then diagnosed with the condition of diverticulosis. 

When Diverticulosis Becomes Diverticulitis 

Diverticulosis is more common in older adults as it tends to develop with age, however, it can affect people of all ages. This condition is typically harmless as most people will remain asymptomatic and the diverticula does not cause any damage to the digestive system, however, when one or more of these pouches become inflamed or infected this is a condition known as diverticulitis which is a diverticular disease.

Diverticulitis typically requires medical treatment as it can cause serious complications and even be life-threatening when it is left untreated. Less severe cases of diverticulitis can be treated with antibiotics, rest, and dietary changes, however, more severe cases may require a surgical procedure. 

Symptoms of Diverticulitis  

While there are numerous symptoms that can occur with diverticulitis, the most common symptom is severe or sharp pain that comes on suddenly and is felt in the lower left side of the abdominal area. An individual may also experience abdominal tenderness, a change in their bowel habits, nausea and/or vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, or constipation.

In some cases, it is possible for an individual to experience bloating in the abdominal area, or bleeding from the rectum. Diverticulitis can cause several complications including a blockage in the colon, rectal bleeding, an abscess, a fistula, and peritonitis which is an infection in the abdominal cavity and is also medical emergency. 

Treatment of Diverticulitis 

Treatment of diverticulitis varies significantly depending on the symptoms and their severity as well as if it is the patient's first attack or they have had numerous or frequent attacks. Initially, treatment for diverticulitis may be that of home treatment consisting of a liquid diet and rest as well as antibiotics until the infection has cleared and then foods that are high in fiber including whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables can be gradually introduced after a few days.

An over-the-counter pain reliever may also be taken to relieve the symptom of pain. In more severe cases, hospitalization may be required if the patient is at risk for an intestinal obstruction or peritonitis. Surgery may also be required if the patient has a fistula, perforation, abscess, or has had repeated attacks of diverticulitis. 

The risk of diverticulitis may be reduced by consuming a diet that is high in fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, exercising regularly, and not delaying when you have the urge to have a bowel movement as this can cause stools to be hardened causing you to strain which puts increased pressure on the colon.  If you have any of the symptoms associated with diverticulitis, it is essential that you contact your physician as soon as possible to obtain a proper diagnosis and a recommended treatment plan.