Diverticulitis / Colitis
Diverticula are small, bulging pouches that can form in the lining of your digestive system. They are usually found in the lower part of the large intestine (colon). The presence of diverticula is referred to diverticulosis and may or may not have noticeable symptoms. It is possible for these pouches can become infected or inflamed, and this condition is known as diverticulitis.
Diverticular disease is defined as significant and symptomatic diverticulosis accompanied by bleeding, diverticulitis, segmental colitis, and persistent abdominal pain.
Symptoms
- Abdomen feels tender or sensitive
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Persistent pain over several days, usually in the lower left side of the abdomen
- Either constipation or diarrhea
Treatment
Normal Diverticulitis - with mild symptoms, recommended treatment may include:
- Antibiotics to treat infection
- Liquid diet for a few days to allow healing of your bowel
- Over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Tylenol
Complicated Diverticulitis - a severe attack or other complications may require:
- Hospitalization
- Intravenous antibiotics
- Insertion of a tube in the event of an abscess
- Surgery