Diverticulitis – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) that form in the wall of the large intestine become inflamed. While diverticula themselves are common, especially in people over 50, their presence alone is called diverticulosis.
These pouches typically develop in the lower colon and often cause no symptoms. When inflammation affects these pouches, diverticulitis develops.
This condition can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel movements. The body’s immune response triggers this inflammation, increasing blood flow and sending disease-fighting cells to the affected area.
Treatment options depend on severity:
| Severity | Treatment Approach |
|---|---|
| Mild | Rest, dietary changes, possible antibiotics |
| Severe | Hospital admission, intravenous antibiotics |
| Recurring/Complicated | Possible surgical intervention |
Most cases respond well to treatment. However, severe or frequent episodes might require more aggressive management to prevent complications.
Signs and Symptoms
Pain in the lower belly area is a common sign of diverticulitis. This pain often happens on the lower left side. It can come on suddenly and be very strong.
Sometimes the pain starts mild and gets worse over time, or it may change in how bad it feels.
Other signs you might notice include:
- Feeling sick to your stomach
- Having a fever
- Tender belly when touched
- Changes in your bowel movements (sudden diarrhea or constipation)
You should seek medical help right away if you have ongoing abdominal pain without a clear cause. This is especially important if you also have a fever and notice changes in your bowel movements.
Why Diverticula Form
Diverticula gradually form within the walls of the colon. As people age, these small pouches become more common. Pressure inside the colon likely plays a key role in their formation.
When the colon wall weakens in certain spots, this pressure can push the inner lining through the muscle layer. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected.
Bacteria trapped in the pouches can lead to infection, and damage to the diverticular tissue can also trigger inflammation. This condition typically affects older adults but can happen at any age.
Risk Factors
People over 50 have a higher chance of getting diverticulitis. Being overweight and smoking can also raise your risk.
Eating too little fiber or too much red meat may increase risk. Heavy alcohol use and not exercising enough are also problems.
Having low vitamin D levels can be a factor. Certain medications might raise your risk, including:
- Steroids
- Opioid pain medications
- NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium)
Complications
About 15% of people with diverticulitis experience complications. These issues can be serious and require prompt medical attention.
Possible complications include:
- Abscesses: Pockets of pus caused by a bacterial infection.
- Intestinal Blockage: Obstruction in the colon that prevents the normal passage of waste.
- Fistulas: Abnormal connections that form between the bowel and nearby organs.
- Peritonitis: A serious condition where the colon wall tears, allowing waste to spill into the abdominal cavity.
- Diverticular Hemorrhage: Bleeding that occurs when blood vessels in the diverticula rupture.
Ways to Stop Diverticulitis
Regular exercise helps prevent diverticulitis. Try to work out vigorously several times a week to lower your risk.
Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods. Fiber facilitates smoother movement of waste through your colon. Good choices include:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Beans
- Seeds
Stay hydrated. Drink enough water daily. Fiber needs water to work well in your digestive system. Without enough fluids, you might get constipated.
Avoid smoking and heavy alcohol use. Both smoking and drinking too much alcohol can make you more likely to develop diverticulitis.
Many people think they should avoid nuts, seeds, and popcorn if they have diverticular disease. Research shows this isn’t true. These foods don’t increase risk and can actually be good sources of fiber.
