DIVERTICULITIS

Overview & Facts

Presence of pouches in the colon.  Diverticulitis is painful inflammation of these pouches.

Low-fiber diet may contribute to this.

Types & Symptoms

  • Tenderness, cramps, or pain in the lower left of abdomen, especially during movement
  • Fever and chills
  • Bloating, abdominal swelling, or gas
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea and sometimes vomiting
  • Loss of appetite

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

History and routine tests are necessary for diagnosis.

  • Complete blood count (CBC) for presence of infection
  • Urinalysis
  • Abdominal X-ray
  • Digital Rectal Exam
  • Fecal occult blood test

Tests done as needed

Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may want to do one or more of these tests.

  • Computed tomography (CT) scan to visualize abscess or diverticulum.
  • Barium Enema X-ray to show diverticula or other causes of abdominal symptoms. Not done during active diverticulitis
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy to visualize perforations

 

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

  • Antibiotics, pain relievers
  • Include high fiber foods in your diet

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