Diverticulitis

What is diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a medical condition that involves the inflammation or infection of small pouches or sacs called diverticula, which can form in the walls of the colon (large intestine)

Symptoms

The symptoms of diverticulitis can vary in intensity, and some people may not show obvious symptoms. However, the most common ones include:

• abdominal pain: usually located in the lower left side of the abdomen, although it can also occur on the right side
• Fever and chills: this may occur due to infection
• Changes in bowel habits: there may be alterations in normal bowel patterns, such as constipation, diarrhea, or both
• Abdominal tenderness: the affected area may be sensitive to touch, and pressure on the abdominal region may increase the pain

Causes

The causes of diverticulitis may be linked to:

• aging: As people age, the wall of the large intestine may weaken, making it easier for diverticulitis to develop
• low-fiber diet: Foods low in fiber or processed foods can contribute to diverticulitis. A lack of fiber in the diet can result in firmer stools and the need to strain during bowel movements, which may also lead to diverticulitis
• genetic factors: If family members have a history of the condition, the risk of developing it increases
• obesity: Excess weight can place additional pressure on the walls of the large intestine

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of diverticulitis usually involves several approaches, such as:

• Interview and physical examination: The healthcare professional gathers detailed information about the patient's symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle
• Blood tests: These may be performed to check for signs of infection and allow for early treatment
• Computed tomography (CT scan): Frequently used to confirm the diagnosis of diverticulitis. This procedure provides detailed images of the intestine and helps assess the presence of inflammation
• Additional tests: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), for example, may be performed in specific cases or if there are doubts about the diagnosis

Treatment

The treatment of diverticulitis may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications. However, it generally includes approaches such as:

• diet: Preferably liquid or easy to digest to give the intestine a chance to recover
• antibiotics: If there is evidence of infection, the doctor may prescribe them to combat the bacterial infection associated with diverticulitis
• hydration: Especially important during acute episodes of diverticulitis

Prevention

The prevention of diverticulitis generally involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits and promoting a healthy intestine, along with strategies such as:

• maintaining a high-fiber diet: Helps keep stools soft, making them easier to pass during bowel movements
• staying properly hydrated: It is important to drink enough water to maintain overall health
• engaging in regular physical activity: Regular exercise can promote colon health and help prevent constipation
• avoiding smoking: Smoking is associated with a variety of health problems, including intestinal disorder

References

Manual MSD

By Einstein Editorial Board