What happens if diverticulitis is left untreated?
Diverticulitis is a condition in which small, bulging pouches (diverticula) develop in the colon (large intestine). In most cases, diverticula do not cause any symptoms and do not require treatment. However, in some cases, diverticula can become inflamed or infected, leading to a condition called diverticulitis.
If diverticulitis is left untreated, it can lead to a number of complications, including:
- Abscess formation: Diverticular abscesses can develop when the infection spreads to the surrounding tissues. Abscesses can be painful and require drainage to prevent further complications.
- Perforation: Diverticular perforation occurs when the inflamed diverticula rupture, spilling infectious material into the abdominal cavity. Perforation is a serious complication that can lead to peritonitis, a life-threatening infection of the abdominal cavity.
- Fistula formation: Fistulas are abnormal connections between different organs or body cavities. Diverticular fistulas can develop between the colon and other organs, such as the bladder, vagina, or small intestine. Fistulas can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, fever, and incontinence.
- Obstruction: Diverticular strictures, or narrowings, can develop due to scarring from inflammation. Strictures can obstruct the colon and cause abdominal pain, constipation, and bloating.
- Bleeding: Diverticular bleeding can occur when the inflamed diverticula bleed into the colon. Bleeding can be mild or severe and may require medical treatment.
- Sepsis: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues. Sepsis can develop as a complication of diverticulitis if the infection spreads to the bloodstream.
In most cases, diverticulitis can be successfully treated with antibiotics, pain relievers, and dietary changes. However, if the condition is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications that may require hospitalization and surgery.