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Diverticulitis

What Is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when small, bulging pouches (diverticula) that form in the lining of the digestive system become inflamed or infected. These pouches typically develop in the colon (large intestine) and are common as people age. When the diverticula become infected, it can cause pain, fever, and other digestive issues. Mild cases of diverticulitis may be treated with rest and antibiotics, while more severe cases may require surgery.

Symptoms of Diverticulitis​

The symptoms of diverticulitis can vary depending on the severity of the inflammation or infection. Common symptoms include:

Abdominal Pain: Usually felt on the lower left side of the abdomen, but can vary.

Fever: A low-grade fever may accompany an inflamed or infected diverticulum.

Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive upset can occur due to infection.

Constipation or Diarrhea: Bowel habits may change due to the infection.

Bloating: Abdominal bloating or discomfort is common.

If you experience persistent or severe abdominal pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits, it is important to seek medical attention to determine whether diverticulitis may be the cause.

Causes and Risk Factors​

Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula, which are typically benign, become inflamed or infected. Several factors may contribute to the development of diverticulitis, including:

Age: The risk of diverticula increases with age, particularly after the age of 40.

Diet: A diet low in fiber and high in refined foods can increase the risk of diverticulitis.

Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of developing diverticulitis.

Smoking: Smoking can contribute to inflammation and the risk of diverticulitis.

Diagnosing Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, patient history, and imaging tests. Common diagnostic methods include:

CT Scan: A CT scan is often used to confirm the presence of diverticulitis and assess the severity of inflammation.

Blood Tests: Blood tests can help detect signs of infection or inflammation.

Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy may be performed after the inflammation has resolved to examine the colon for diverticula and rule out other conditions.

Treatments for Diverticulitis

At Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatments for diverticulitis:

Dietary Modifications: For mild cases, adjusting your diet to include more fiber and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms can help manage the condition.

Antibiotics: If the diverticulitis is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.

Surgery: In more severe or recurrent cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the colon, particularly if complications like abscesses, perforations, or blockages occur.

What Happens If Left Untreated?

If left untreated, diverticulitis can lead to serious complications, including abscess formation, bowel perforation, fistulas, or peritonitis (infection of the abdominal cavity). Chronic or untreated diverticulitis may also cause scarring, leading to bowel obstructions that require surgery.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of diverticulitis or have been diagnosed with this condition, it’s important to seek professional medical care to prevent complications. At Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics, our experienced team provides comprehensive care for diverticulitis and can guide you through both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about managing diverticulitis and improving your digestive health.

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