Diverticulitis

What is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition when sacs called diverticula in the colon get infected and cause rectal bleeding and severe abdominal pain. Small bulging pouches known as diverticula, can form in the lining of your digestive system and are usually found in the large intestines.They are common but seldom cause any serious problems. The most common cause for the development of diverticula in the colon is straining due to constipation as well as a lack of fibre in the diet.

Diverticulitis is a serious disease, especially if the sac bursts and bacteria and feces spread into the abdominal cavity. Surgery would be required If infection spreads and an abscess forms in the colon.

If you experience pain in your lower left abdomen, nausea and vomiting, call your doctor or call our 24-Hour Medical Urgency Clinic (65) 6705 2999.

What are the symptoms of Diverticulitis?

A common symptom of Diverticulitis is a sudden and intense abdominal pain, more commonly in the lower left abdomen. Other symptoms include:

• Constipation
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in bowel movement, including diarrhoea and constipation
• Passing blood during bowel movement
• Persistent pain in the lower abdomen

What are the causes and risk factors of Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis develops gradually in the walls of the colon. It may happen due to bacterial disease or damage to the diverticula tissue. Some factors that may increase your risk of developing the condition include:

• Obesity
• Use of tobacco products
• A low-fiber diet
• A diet high in red meat
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Lack of exercise

How do you prevent Diveticulitis?

You can follow these steps to lower your risk of diverticulitis:

• Eat a high-fiber diet: A high-fiber diet improves the movement of waste through the colon and lowers your risk of diverticulitis. Some fiber-rich food you can add to your diet include fruit, vegetables, whole grains, seeds and beans. 
• Maintain a healthy weight: Regular, vigourous exercise and maintaining a healthy weight decreases your risk of diverticulitis.
• Stay hydrated: Fiber works by absorbing water and increasing the soft waste in your colon hence ensuring you drink enough fluids ensures the movement of waste in your colon and prevents constipation.
• Quit smoking and limit excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and alcohol consumption has been linked with an increased risk of diverticulitis.

How is Diverticulitis diagnosed?

Blood tests
A blood test may be done to detect any infections.

Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy might be required to detect changes or abnormalities in the colon and rectum.

Imaging tests
Iimaging tests are done with ultrasound, x-ray or CT scan to check for inflammation in the colon and rectum.