With this curious intestinal disease, parts of the intestinal wall bulge outwards and become inflamed. Here you can find out how diverticulitis occurs and what symptoms you can recognize from it.
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What is diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is an inflammation of tiny protuberances in the intestinal wall. These so-called diverticula develop when a lot of pressure is applied to weak points in the intestinal mucosa . This is particularly common in the sigmoid colon, as this last, narrower section of the colon describes an S-curve and is subject to high muscle tension. In most cases, diverticula are harmless and do not cause us any symptoms. However, if feces get lodged in them, they can become inflamed. In addition to a genetic component, cigarettes, alcohol and obesity in particular increase the risk of diverticulitis, which is associated with the following symptoms.
Diverticulitis: 4 symptoms of bowel disease
1. Pain in the lower left abdomen
Since diverticulitis occurs more often in the last section of the large intestine, those affected usually suffer from severe, dull pain in the lower left abdomen. Abdominal pain on the right side is also possible, but more typical of appendicitis . The inflamed bowel section may even be slightly swollen and palpable.
2. Indigestion
As with many diseases of the gut, diverticulitis can cause problems and discomfort with digestion. Constipation and flatulence as well as diarrhea can occur . The symptoms are often only temporary and subside after a bowel movement.
Tip: Eating a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated can help support your digestion and reduce your risk of diverticulitis.
3. Blood in the stool
When constipation occurs as a result of diverticulitis, stool stays in the colon longer, where it continues to be dehydrated. This causes the stool to harden , resulting in hard or sharp edges that can injure the bowel. Leaking blood mixes with the stool and, depending on the amount, can even be visible to the naked eye.
4. Fever
In addition to symptoms that are directly related to the digestive tract, more general symptoms can also occur with diverticulitis. For example, a slight fever as well as exhaustion and weakness. At the latest when the fever rises dangerously or your heart starts to race, you should seek medical help.
Important: If you notice the symptoms mentioned above or similar, do not hesitate and consult a doctor. The doctor can use palpation (scanning), blood tests and imaging methods to make a diagnosis and initiate the appropriate treatment.
treatment of diverticulitis
About 80 percent of those affected suffer from mild, uncomplicated diverticulitis , which can usually be treated well with conservative methods and heals within a week. In addition to avoiding irritants such as red meat , alcohol, and cigarettes, a high-fiber diet is recommended and antibiotics may be given. Painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac, on the other hand, should never be taken, as they increase the risk of a perforation of the intestinal wall in acute diverticulitis. If such complications are imminent or if the inflammation is severe and causes abscesses (complicated diverticulitis), surgery may be necessary.
Book tips for a healthy gut
If you would like to find out in a funny and charming way how our intestines work, what the intestinal flora consists of and how bowel movements actually take place, you can’t avoid the classic “Intestines with Charm” by Giulia Enders . If, on the other hand, you want to take care of your intestines with the help of nutrition or simply want smoother digestion, “Good digestion: The best nutritional strategies for irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease & Co.” by the nutrition docs is just right for you.
