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Symptoms & Complications of Diverticulitis

People who have bulging pouches in the sigmoid colon have what is called diverticulosis. If these pouches get inflamed, then the condition is called diverticulitis. As people get older, the chance of getting diverticulosis increases, and just about fifty percent of people past the age of 60 have diverticulitis. Symptoms of diverticulitis include sudden and severe pain in the abdomen, or mild pain that worsens over the course of a few days. The level of the pain may fluctuate. Cramps, feelings of nauseousness, regurgitation, elevated temperature, chills, or changes in bowel habits are also symptoms of diverticulitis. Diverticulitis can lead to complications that will need to be treated.

  1. Rectal Bleeding

    • If a diverticula (multiple pouches) bursts, bleeding can occur. In many cases a colonoscopy is performed to locate the exact spot of the bleeding. Surgical removal of part of the colon may be necessary if the bleeding fails to stop.

    Abscess and Peritonitis

    • If an infection occurs as a result of diverticulitis, pus may leak through perforations that develop. This can create a large abscess in the abdomen, a condition known as peritonitis. Symptoms of peritonitis include nauseousness, regurgitation, an elevation in temperature and extreme tenderness in the area of the abdomen. If timely surgical treatment is not initiated, peritonitis can lead to death.

    Fistulas

    • A fistula forms when damaged tissue fuses together. Sometimes the connection of tissue occurs between two organs. Organs commonly involved are the bladder, the small intestine and the skin.

    Intestinal Blockage

    • When scar tissue has formed as a result of infection, a blockage in the intestine may occur. Surgery will be necessary in this case as the colon may not be able to eliminate normally.

    Causes

    • Due to the fact that diverticular disease appeared the same time processed foods did, it is suspected that diverticular disease is caused by an inadequate intake of fiber. Straining due to constipation may also be suspect, as well as a lack of exercise. Trapped bacteria or stools may cause inflammation of the diverticula, but this is not known for sure.

    Treatment

    • If complications and severe pain are present, treatment may be a stay in the hospital with antibiotics administered intravenously, fasting or surgery. If symptoms are not severe, all that may be needed is bed rest, antibiotics by mouth, medication to relieve pain and a diet that consists of liquids, with an increase of high-fiber foods after several days.

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