Diagnosing Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is a condition where small sacs, called diverticula, become inflamed or infected in the digestive tract.
To diagnose diverticulitis, doctors may use a combination of examinations, screening tests, and procedures. These help confirm the presence of diverticulitis and determine its severity. The specialists involved in diagnosing diverticulitis may include primary care physicians, gastroenterologists, and radiologists. Here are some of the examinations, tests, and procedures used for diagnosis:
Medical history and physical examination:
- Your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform a physical examination, specifically checking the area of your abdomen that hurts. This initial evaluation helps the doctor gather important information about your condition.
Imaging tests:
- CT scan: A CT scan is a commonly used imaging test to diagnose diverticulitis. It allows doctors to see inside your colon and identify the diverticula (small pouches) and their severity. It can also detect complications such as abscesses or spread of infection.
- Barium enema: This imaging test involves coating organs with barium to make them visible on an X-ray. It can help identify diverticula in individuals with a history of diverticular disease.
Blood tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC): A blood test that looks for signs of infection by checking the number of white blood cells. An elevated white blood cell count may indicate an infection associated with diverticulitis.
Stool tests:
- Stool sample analysis: Doctors may collect a stool sample to check for blood, bacteria, or parasites. This test helps rule out other potential causes of symptoms.
Colonoscopy:
- Colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin tube with a tiny video camera on the end (endoscope) to examine the colon's lining. It can help confirm a diagnosis of diverticular disease and rule out other conditions such as cancer.
- During a colonoscopy, doctors can also take tissue samples (biopsy) for further analysis if needed.
These examinations, tests, and procedures assist in confirming the presence of diverticulitis and determining its severity or stage by identifying factors or indicators such as inflamed diverticula, presence of abscesses, spread of infection, or signs of complications.
It's important to note that the specific diagnostic approach may vary depending on individual circumstances and healthcare providers' preferences. If you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of diverticulitis or have concerns about your digestive health, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your condition and provide appropriate guidance tailored to your specific needs.