Diverticulitis Symptoms: What to Look For & When to Seek Help

Introduction: Understanding Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a common digestive condition that affects millions worldwide, particularly as people age. It occurs when small, bulging pouches, called diverticula, that can form in the lining of your digestive system—most commonly in the colon—become inflamed or infected. While diverticula themselves (a condition known as diverticulosis) are often harmless and asymptomatic, their inflammation can lead to significant pain and complications. Understanding the symptoms of diverticulitis is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management, preventing more severe health issues. This article will guide you through recognizing the signs of diverticulitis and knowing when it’s time to seek medical attention. The GutFeeling app can assist in tracking symptoms and dietary patterns that might be related to your digestive health.

What are Diverticula and Diverticulosis?

Before diving into diverticulitis, it’s important to understand its precursor: diverticulosis. Diverticula are small, bulging sacs or pouches that can form on the wall of the large intestine (colon). They are thought to develop when naturally weak places in your colon give way under pressure, causing marble-sized pouches to protrude through the colon wall. Diverticulosis is very common, especially after age 40, and most people with diverticulosis never experience symptoms or problems.

What is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis occurs when one or more of these diverticula become inflamed or infected. This can happen if stool or undigested food gets trapped in the pouches, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. The inflammation can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, can lead to serious complications such as abscesses, perforations (a hole in the bowel), or blockages.

Common Symptoms of Diverticulitis

The symptoms of diverticulitis can vary in intensity and may develop suddenly or gradually over several days. The most common and tell-tale symptom is abdominal pain.

1. Abdominal Pain: This is the most common symptom. The pain is typically constant and persistent, lasting for several days. It is most often felt in the lower left side of the abdomen, as diverticula are most common in the sigmoid colon (the lower part of the large intestine). However, pain can also occur on the right side, especially in people of Asian descent, or in the upper abdomen. The pain can range from mild tenderness to severe, excruciating pain.
2. Nausea and Vomiting: Many individuals with diverticulitis experience nausea, which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting. This is often due to the inflammation affecting the digestive process.
3. Fever: A low-grade fever is a common sign of infection or inflammation within the body. In diverticulitis, fever often indicates that the inflamed diverticula have become infected.
4. Changes in Bowel Habits: This can manifest as either constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea. Inflammation in the colon can disrupt normal bowel function, leading to irregularities.
5. Abdominal Tenderness: The affected area of the abdomen, usually the lower left, will often be tender to the touch.
6. Bloating and Gas: Inflammation and altered bowel function can lead to increased bloating and gas.
7. Loss of Appetite: Due to pain, nausea, and general malaise, a decreased appetite is common.

Less Common but Serious Symptoms (When to Seek Immediate Medical Help)

While the symptoms above are common, certain signs indicate a more severe form of diverticulitis or a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention. Do not delay seeking emergency care if you experience any of the following:

1. Severe, Sudden Abdominal Pain: Especially if it’s rapidly worsening or spreads across your abdomen. This could indicate a perforation or abscess.
2. Persistent Vomiting: If you are unable to keep fluids down, you are at risk of dehydration.
3. Rectal Bleeding: While some minor bleeding can occur, significant or persistent rectal bleeding warrants immediate medical evaluation.
4. Rigid or Board-Like Abdomen: This is a critical sign of peritonitis, an inflammation of the abdominal lining, often caused by a ruptured diverticulum.
5. Signs of Shock: Including rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, or cold, clammy skin. This is a medical emergency.
6. Absence of Bowel Movements or Gas: This could indicate a bowel obstruction.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent abdominal pain, especially in the lower left side, accompanied by fever, nausea, or changes in bowel habits, it’s important to see your doctor promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications.

Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam, ask about your symptoms and medical history, and may order tests such as:

1. Blood tests: To check for signs of infection (e.g., elevated white blood cell count) and inflammation.
2. Urine test: To rule out urinary tract infections.
3. Stool test: To rule out other causes of abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
4. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis: This is the most common and accurate imaging test for diagnosing diverticulitis and identifying complications.

Managing Diverticulitis: Initial Steps

Once diagnosed, treatment for diverticulitis typically involves:

1. Rest: Allowing your digestive system to rest is crucial.
2. Antibiotics: If an infection is present, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics.
3. Dietary Modifications: Initially, your doctor may recommend a clear liquid diet for a few days to give your bowel a rest, gradually progressing to a low-fiber diet, and then slowly reintroducing fiber as symptoms improve. The GutFeeling app can help you track your dietary intake and symptoms to understand what works best for you during recovery.
4. Pain relievers: Over-thecounter pain relievers may be recommended, but NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) should generally be avoided as they can increase the risk of complications.

In severe cases, hospitalization or surgery may be required, especially if complications like an abscess, perforation, or fistula develop.

Prevention and Long-Term Management

While diverticulosis is common, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing diverticulitis:

1. High-Fiber Diet: A diet rich in fiber helps keep stools soft and regular, reducing pressure in the colon. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. Drink Plenty of Fluids: Water helps fiber work effectively and keeps stools soft.
3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps maintain normal bowel function.
4. Avoid Smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.

Conclusion: Be Proactive About Your Gut Health

Diverticulitis can be a painful and serious condition, but recognizing its symptoms early and seeking timely medical attention can make a significant difference in your outcome. By understanding the signs, knowing when to seek help, and adopting a gut-healthy lifestyle, you can take proactive steps to manage diverticulitis and maintain your digestive well-being. Remember, your gut health is a cornerstone of your overall health, and listening to your body’s signals is the first step towards a healthier you. The GutFeeling app is designed to support you in this journey, providing tools to track, understand, and improve your digestive health.