What is it?
An inflammation or infection of diverticula (small pouches that occur along your digestive tract mostly in colon) is called diverticulitis. These pouches form when weak spots in the intestinal wall balloon outward. When these pouches become inflamed, or bacteria gather in them and cause an infection, you have diverticulitis. It is very common in older adults, especially those over 60. It is believed that the root cause of the condition is faecal matter blocking the opening of diverticula, which leads to inflammation and infection. However, they think the reasons for that blockage can vary from person to person.
What are the symptoms?
This condition causes symptoms similar to those of irritable bowel syndrome, such as abdominal pain and bloating. diverticulitis often causes symptoms that range from mild to severe. These symptoms can appear suddenly, or occur slowly over a few days.
Common symptoms:
Pain in the abdomen is the most common symptom. It typically occurs in the lower left side of the abdomen. The condition most often affects the part of the colon in that area. The pain in tummy usually comes and goes.
Other symptoms include:
- Fever.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Increased urge to urinate, urinating more often than usual, or burning sensation while urinating.
- A change in bowel habit (constipation and diarrhoea).
- Blood in the stool, as well as bleeding from the rectum, can occur mucus in poo.
What to expect?
If you are diagnosed with diverticulitis, you can consider discussing the following subjects with your doctor:
- What treatment options do you have? What is best suited for you?
- A healthy diet, quitting smoking and an active lifestyle can help improve overall health and well-being. Which changes can you make in your lifestyle?