Around 200,000 people in the United States are hospitalized yearly due to diverticulitis. Approximately 35% of adults under 50 have diverticulosis, a precursor to diverticulitis. The condition is more prevalent in individuals over 50 years old, with this percentage increasing significantly with age, affecting about 58% of adults over 60.
Diverticulitis is the inflammation of small, irregular, bulging pouches, known as diverticula, that develop in the wall of the large intestine (colon). Normally, the colon's surface is smooth, but over time, weak spots in the colon wall can give way under pressure, forming these pouches. This condition, called diverticulosis, is common, especially after the age of 50, and often does not cause symptoms or complications.
However, when these pouches become inflamed or infected, it leads to diverticulitis. The inflammation occurs as the immune system responds to the presence of bacteria or other irritants trapped in the diverticula. This results in increased blood flow and immune activity, which can cause symptoms such as severe abdominal pain (usually on the lower left side), fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. While mild cases can often be managed with dietary adjustments and antibiotics, severe cases may require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, or even surgery.
Diverticulosis is a condition where small, bulging pouches form in the wall of the bowel. In contrast, diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected. Together, these conditions are referred to as diverticular disease.
Acute diverticulitis occurs suddenly and typically resolves quickly with appropriate treatment, such as rest, dietary changes, and medication. However, it can lead to repeated episodes if a previous bout wasn’t fully treated or healed. This recurring inflammation may also be linked to other chronic conditions affecting the colon.
Chronic diverticulitis involves ongoing or recurrent inflammation that persists over time. This often happens when an acute episode does not completely heal or due to other chronic colon conditions. Chronic inflammation may lead to complications, such as scarring or narrowing of the colon.
This is the most common and mildest form of diverticulitis. It generally improves with conservative treatment, including dietary modifications, rest, and possibly antibiotics. It does not typically cause additional problems or require invasive procedures.
Complicated diverticulitis arises when inflammation leads to more serious issues, such as a ruptured diverticulum, abscesses, fistulas, or scarring that can block the bowel. This type often requires hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, and sometimes surgery to resolve these potentially life-threatening complications.
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the wall of the colon, called diverticula, become inflamed or infected. Symptoms can vary in severity, but common signs include:
A diverticulitis attack is marked by severe abdominal pain, often accompanied by a fever. The pain can vary in nature—it may be sharp and stabbing or cause a persistent burning sensation.
The discomfort is usually moderate to severe, constant, and concentrated on the lower left side of the abdomen. However, for some, particularly those of Asian descent, the right side of the abdomen may be more affected.
If the obstruction worsens, symptoms can intensify, resulting in increased abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting.
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking prompt medical care can help prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches called diverticula, which can form in the walls of the colon, become inflamed or infected. These pouches develop in weak spots of the colon where the inner layers push through the outer layers, creating small bulges. When a diverticulum tears, it can lead to inflammation, swelling, and sometimes infection, resulting in diverticulitis.
The exact cause of diverticulitis is not entirely understood, and not everyone with diverticula will develop diverticulitis. However, research suggests that genetics might play a significant role. Some people may have a hereditary predisposition to developing diverticular disease. Additionally, environmental and lifestyle factors can influence the likelihood of inflammation or infection.
Interestingly, many individuals with diverticula remain unaware of their condition, as diverticula often do not cause symptoms until complications like diverticulitis occur.
Your risk of developing diverticulitis increases with age, becoming more common after the age of 40. Other risk factors include:
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help lower your chances of developing diverticulitis. Consider these strategies:
While diverticulitis can be uncomfortable and even serious in some cases, many of the associated risk factors are manageable through lifestyle and dietary changes. Speak with your doctor if you suspect you are at risk or if you have any concerns about your digestion.
Untreated diverticulitis can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications that often require medical intervention or surgery. Some of the most common complications include:
The symptoms of diverticulitis—such as abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits—can mimic other conditions. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes, doctors use a combination of physical exams and diagnostic tests:
Your doctor will check for tenderness or pain in the abdomen. Women may also undergo a pelvic exam to rule out gynecological issues.
Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of the condition, ranging from home remedies for mild cases to surgery for severe complications.
For mild diverticulitis, your doctor may recommend rest, dietary adjustments, and possibly antibiotics:
Your doctor may also prescribe mild pain relievers like acetaminophen to manage discomfort.
For more serious cases, hospitalization may be required:
Surgery is required for severe complications or when diverticulitis does not respond to other treatments:
After recovery, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to rule out conditions like colon cancer.
While diverticulitis can’t always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis and its complications:
By recognizing symptoms early, seeking timely medical care, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can manage diverticulitis effectively and prevent severe complications.
Contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of diverticulitis. Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following:
If you are dealing with any of the issues or symptoms mentioned above, consulting a specialist like Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, can make all the difference. At GastroDoxs, we provide expert gastroenterology care across three convenient locations in Houston and surrounding areas, including Brenham, Copperfield, Cypress, Fulshear, Jersey Village, Richmond, Spring Branch, Waller, and Willowbrook. Don’t ignore the signs—reach out to GastroDoxs today and prioritize your digestive health with the care you deserve.
Sometimes, mild cases of uncomplicated diverticulitis can resolve on their own, typically within about a week. However, it's important to consult a healthcare provider even if symptoms seem mild. Your doctor might prescribe antibiotics or pain relief medications and provide recovery guidance. Without proper care, even mild cases can worsen or lead to complications.
Diverticulitis is often mild, but it can become serious if not treated. Severe cases can result in complications like infections, abscesses, bowel obstruction, or even perforation of the colon. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent these outcomes.
While diverticulosis, the presence of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon, is common, diverticulitis, the inflammation or infection of these pouches, is less common. About 4% of individuals with diverticulosis develop diverticulitis. Additionally, those who have had diverticulitis have about a 20% chance of recurrence.
Most people recover fully from diverticulitis, especially if it’s treated early. Following a healthy lifestyle and adhering to your doctor’s recommendations can reduce the risk of recurrence and improve overall quality of life.
Historically, it was thought that nuts, seeds, and popcorn could trigger diverticulitis, but recent studies suggest this is not true for most people. However, it’s best to avoid foods that personally irritate your digestive system.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
