Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is the infection in the pouches formed in the lining of the digestive tract. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms and, in some cases, serious complications. If left untreated, these complications can cause long-term health problems. Some people may develop complications that require urgent medical care.
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Symptoms
- Pain in your abdomen
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills
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Causes
- Obesity
- Diet high in animal fat & low in fibre
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking
- Certain medications, such as steroids ,non-steroidal ant inflammatory drugs
Complications
Complications of Diverticulitis include
Infection Pockets (abcess)
Small pouches in the colon can get infected, forming pockets of pus in the belly.
Peritonitis
This can occur if the infected or inflamed pouch ruptures, spilling intestinal contents into your abdominal cavity. Peritonitis is a medical emergency and requires immediate care.
Abnormal Connections (fistula)
Long-term inflammation can make unusual connections between the colon and nearby organs like the bladder or vagina.
Blocked Bowel
Inflammation can narrow the colon, making it hard to pass motions causing constipation and stomach pain.
Bleeding
Sometimes, these pouches can bleed, causing blood in motions or can cause even heavy bleeding.
Systemic Infection
Severe cases can lead to a widespread infection in the body, making you very sick which can become life-threatening.
FAQ
Diverticulitis is when small pouches in the colon, called diverticula, become inflamed or infected. It can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
Common symptoms include persistent abdominal pain (usually in the lower left side), fever, nausea, vomiting, changes in bowel habits, and sometimes rectal bleeding.
Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as CT scans or abdominal ultrasound to confirm.
A high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help prevent flare-ups. Drinking fluids and regular exercise can promote bowel regularity and overall digestive health.
Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat acute episodes of Diverticulitis caused by bacterial infection. Pain relievers, antispasmodics, and fiber supplements may also be recommended to alleviate symptoms.
Surgery may be necessary in cases of severe or recurrent Diverticulitis, complications such as perforation or abscess formation, or if other treatments fail to provide relief.
Risks of surgery include infection, bleeding, injury to nearby organs, bowel obstruction or leakage, and anesthesia-related complications. However, these risks are carefully weighed against the potential benefits of surgery in each case.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can help reduce the risk of recurrent episodes.
Diverticulitis can sometimes lead to complications such as abscess formation, bowel obstruction, fistula formation, or even sepsis if left untreated or if the condition worsens.
Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the condition, adjust treatment as needed, and address any concerns or new symptoms that may arise. The frequency of follow-up visits will depend on the patient's condition and treatment plan.
