General Information About Diverticulitis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the condition where small bubbles (pouches) protruding from weak points in the intestinal wall become blocked with pieces of stool, leading to bacterial growth and inflammation.
Diverticulosis is simply the presence of these pouches in the intestine and usually causes no problems. However, when these pouches become inflamed and infected, the condition is called Diverticulitis.
A low-fiber diet (lacking fruits and vegetables), chronic constipation, excessive straining on the toilet, and increased pressure inside the intestines due to advancing age are the biggest causes.
The most common symptom is a severe, continuous pain that suddenly starts in the lower left side of the abdomen. It may be accompanied by fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation.
Colonoscopy is not preferred during an acute attack because the intestine could perforate (tear). Following a physician's examination, inflammatory markers (CRP) in the blood are checked, and a Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen is used to detect the inflamed pouches.
In mild attacks, oral antibiotics and a liquid diet to rest the bowel are applied. In risky situations such as the formation of an abscess or perforation of the bowel, the diseased portion of the intestine is urgently removed via surgery.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
