Symptoms of Diverticulitis

Common Symptoms

Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches in the colon become infected and inflamed. The symptoms of diverticulitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition.

Common symptoms include:

Abdominal pain: The most common symptom of diverticulitis is abdominal pain, usually on the lower left side. The pain is often sharp and distinct, and it may come on suddenly over a few hours.
Changes in bowel habits: Diverticulitis can cause changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea. Some people may experience alternating episodes of both.
Loss of appetite: Another symptom of diverticulitis is a loss of appetite. This can be accompanied by weight loss.
Bloating and cramping: People with diverticulitis may experience abdominal bloating and cramping. This can be uncomfortable and contribute to feelings of discomfort.

With more severe diverticulitis, symptoms may include:

Steady abdominal pain, usually located in the lower left part of the abdomen.
Tenderness to pressure in the lower abdomen: The affected area may be tender when touched, especially on the left side.
Fever: A fever can occur as a result of the inflammation and infection caused by diverticulitis.
Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms may be present due to the inflammation in the digestive tract.
Chills: Chills can accompany fever and are a common symptom of infection.
Lower intestinal bleeding: In some cases, diverticulosis can lead to bleeding in the colon, which can cause weakness and dizziness.

If you experience these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. It's crucial to note that diverticulitis can lead to complications if left untreated. Complications may include abscesses (pockets of pus), perforation of the colon (a hole in the colon wall), or peritonitis (inflammation of the stomach lining). Therefore, it's important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any signs of severe diverticulitis.

Treatment for diverticulitis will depend on whether it is uncomplicated or complicated.

Treatment Options

Here are some common treatment options:

Mild Diverticulitis:

Diet modifications: In some cases of an acute diverticulitis flare, your doctor may recommend a clear liquid or bland, low-fiber diet to give your colon time to heal and reduce inflammation. A low fiber diet can include foods like white rice, white bread, white pasta (if you're not gluten intolerant), dry low-fiber cereals, cooked animal proteins (such as fish, poultry, or eggs), olive oil or other oils, yellow squash, zucchini, pumpkin without skin or seeds, cooked spinach, beets, carrots, asparagus, potatoes without skin, and fruit and vegetable juices.
Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve abdominal pain associated with diverticulitis. However, it's important to consult with your doctor before taking any medication.
Rest and hydration: Resting and staying hydrated can help support your body's healing process during a diverticulitis flare-up.
Antibiotics: In mild cases without fever, antibiotics may not be necessary. However, if prescribed by a doctor, they can help treat the infection.

Severe diverticulitis:

Hospitalization: If your symptoms are more severe or you have other health conditions, you may need to be hospitalized until the infection improves.
IV antibiotics: In a hospital setting, antibiotics are given intravenously to effectively treat the infection.
Abscess drainage: If an abscess has formed, a needle may be inserted into the affected area to drain it.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary if antibiotics and other treatments do not improve the condition. Surgery may be required if there is no improvement with antibiotics, if an abscess is too large to be drained with a needle, if there is an obstruction in the colon caused by diverticulitis, or if there is a perforation in the colon wall.

Daily Living/After Diverticulitis Flare

High fiber diet: Once your symptoms improve, your doctor may recommend gradually increasing your fiber intake to prevent future flares. Increasing fiber intake can help soften stools and prevent constipation, which may reduce symptoms. High fiber foods can include whole grains (such as whole wheat bread and brown rice). Some high fiber foods, such as raw vegetables and nuts, can aggravate diverticulitis in some people. A registered dietitian can help recommend ways to increase fiber in your diet, accounting for your individual situation.
Remember to always follow up with your doctor if you suspect a flare-up of diverticulitis. They will provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help you manage this condition effectively

Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.