How do ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis differ. What are the main symptoms of each condition. How are ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis diagnosed and treated. What causes these digestive disorders. Can ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis be prevented.

Understanding Ulcerative Colitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the large intestine. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. While the exact cause remains unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

• Genetic predisposition
• Abnormal immune system responses
• Alterations in the gut microbiome
• Environmental triggers

Are certain individuals more prone to developing ulcerative colitis. Research suggests that those with a family history of the condition are at higher risk. Additionally, people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent and those living in urban or industrialized areas appear to have an increased likelihood of developing ulcerative colitis.

Common Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary in severity and may include:

• Persistent diarrhea, often with blood or pus
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Rectal pain and bleeding
• Urgency to defecate
• Inability to defecate despite urgency
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever

Can ulcerative colitis symptoms come and go. Yes, the condition is characterized by periods of active disease (flares) and remission. During remission, patients may experience few or no symptoms, while flares can bring about severe discomfort and complications.

Diverticulitis Explained: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when small, bulging pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract become inflamed or infected. These pouches most commonly form in the colon. Unlike ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis is not considered a chronic inflammatory condition, but rather an acute complication of diverticulosis.

What factors increase the risk of developing diverticulitis. Several elements can contribute to the development of this condition:

• Advancing age (more common in people over 40)
• Low-fiber diet
• Obesity
• Lack of regular physical activity
• Smoking
• Certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, steroids)
• Genetic factors

Recognizing Diverticulitis Symptoms

The symptoms of diverticulitis can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Persistent abdominal pain, usually on the lower left side
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Bloating
• Rectal bleeding (in some cases)

Do diverticulitis symptoms always require immediate medical attention. While mild cases may be managed at home with rest and dietary changes, severe symptoms or signs of complications (such as high fever, severe pain, or persistent vomiting) warrant prompt medical evaluation.

Differentiating Ulcerative Colitis from Diverticulitis: Key Distinctions

Although ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis both affect the digestive system and share some similar symptoms, they are distinct conditions with important differences:

How do the long-term outlooks for ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis compare. Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management, while diverticulitis can often be successfully treated with lifestyle changes and occasional medical interventions. However, both conditions can lead to complications if left untreated or poorly managed.

Diagnostic Approaches for Ulcerative Colitis and Diverticulitis

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis. While some diagnostic tools overlap, the approach may differ based on the suspected condition:

Diagnostic Tests for Ulcerative Colitis

• Blood tests (to check for anemia, infection, and inflammation markers)
• Stool samples (to rule out infections and check for inflammation)
• Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy (to visualize the colon and take biopsies)
• Imaging studies (CT scan or MRI) to assess the extent of inflammation

Diagnostic Tests for Diverticulitis

• Physical examination and medical history review
• Blood tests (to check for signs of infection and inflammation)
• CT scan (the primary imaging tool for diagnosing diverticulitis)
• Ultrasound (in some cases, particularly for younger patients)

Why is early and accurate diagnosis important for these conditions. Prompt and correct diagnosis allows for timely treatment, which can prevent complications, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall quality of life for patients with either ulcerative colitis or diverticulitis.

Treatment Strategies: Managing Ulcerative Colitis and Diverticulitis

The treatment approaches for ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis differ significantly due to the nature of each condition:

Ulcerative Colitis Treatment

Treatment for ulcerative colitis aims to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and maintain remission. It may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., 5-aminosalicylates, corticosteroids)
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine, mercaptopurine)
• Biologics (e.g., infliximab, adalimumab)
• JAK inhibitors
• Dietary modifications
• Stress management techniques
• Surgery (in severe cases or if complications develop)

Diverticulitis Treatment

The treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of the condition:

• Mild cases:
  • Oral antibiotics
  • Temporary liquid diet
  • Pain relievers
• Severe cases:
  • Hospitalization
  • Intravenous antibiotics
  • Bowel rest (no food by mouth)
  • Surgery (if complications occur or for recurrent episodes)

Can lifestyle changes help manage these conditions. Yes, for both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis, lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. These may include dietary changes, stress reduction, regular exercise, and smoking cessation.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Recommendations

While it’s not always possible to prevent ulcerative colitis or diverticulitis, certain lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk or manage symptoms:

Ulcerative Colitis Prevention and Management

• Maintain a balanced diet (some may benefit from specific diets like low-FODMAP)
• Stay hydrated
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or therapy
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid trigger foods (individualized for each patient)
• Don’t smoke or quit if you do
• Take medications as prescribed

Diverticulitis Prevention and Management

• Eat a high-fiber diet
• Stay well-hydrated
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid or limit red meat consumption
• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol intake

How effective are these preventive measures. While they may not guarantee prevention, these lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis and may help manage symptoms in both conditions. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Long-term Outlook and Potential Complications

Understanding the potential long-term effects and complications of ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis is crucial for patients and healthcare providers:

Ulcerative Colitis: Long-term Considerations

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Potential long-term effects and complications include:

• Increased risk of colon cancer
• Osteoporosis (due to long-term steroid use)
• Primary sclerosing cholangitis (liver disease)
• Toxic megacolon (severe, potentially life-threatening complication)
• Malnutrition
• Emotional and psychological impacts

Regular check-ups, including colonoscopies, are essential for monitoring the condition and catching any potential complications early.

Diverticulitis: Long-term Outlook

While diverticulitis is typically an acute condition, it can have long-term implications:

• Recurrent episodes of diverticulitis
• Fistulas (abnormal connections between organs)
• Intestinal obstruction
• Abscesses
• Peritonitis (if diverticula rupture)

Can these conditions impact quality of life. Both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, particularly during active flares or episodes. However, with proper management and treatment, many individuals can maintain a good quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments

The field of gastroenterology is constantly evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving our understanding and treatment of conditions like ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis:

Advances in Ulcerative Colitis Research

• Targeted biologics and small molecule therapies
• Microbiome-based treatments
• Gene therapy approaches
• Stem cell transplantation
• Precision medicine strategies

Developments in Diverticulitis Management

• Improved diagnostic techniques
• Minimally invasive surgical procedures
• Probiotics and microbiome modulation
• Novel anti-inflammatory treatments

What potential breakthroughs are on the horizon for these conditions. Researchers are exploring various avenues, including personalized medicine approaches, novel drug delivery systems, and gut microbiome manipulation. These advancements hold promise for more effective, targeted treatments with fewer side effects.

As our understanding of ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis continues to grow, so does the potential for improved diagnostic tools, treatment options, and preventive strategies. Patients are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments and discuss new treatment possibilities with their healthcare providers.

Ulcerative Colitis vs. Diverticulitis: How They Differ

Ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis are both conditions that affect your digestive system. Although they have some common symptoms, they are entirely different conditions, with unique causes and treatment plans.

Both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis are digestive conditions that can cause uncomfortable symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, and blood in your stool. But there are key differences between the two.

Diverticulitis is a condition characterized by the development of small, bulging sacs in the colon (large intestine). On the other hand, ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition where the inner lining of the colon becomes inflamed and causes ulcers to develop.

Diverticulitis and ulcerative colitis require different treatment plans, which is why it’s important that you visit your healthcare professional if you have symptoms of either condition.

Let’s take a look at the differences and similarities between ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis, as well as how to get a diagnosis and treatment.

While both conditions affect your digestive system and have several overlapping symptoms, ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis are two distinct conditions with unique causes and symptoms. Here’s what to know about each condition.

Ulcerative colitis: Causes and symptoms

Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). People with ulcerative colitis develop inflammation and ulcers in their large intestine. It’s considered chronic, meaning that people who have the condition have it for life. Still, with the right treatment, many people are able to effectively manage their symptoms.

It’s not known exactly what causes ulcerative colitis. Medical experts believe the following factors may play a role:

• Your genes: If your parents or grandparents had ulcerative colitis, you may have inherited certain genes that make you more prone to developing it too.
• Unusual immune reactions: It’s thought that ulcerative colitis may be triggered by abnormal reactions in the immune system.
• Microbiome differences: Certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi in your digestive tract (known as your microbiome) may play a role in triggering ulcerative colitis.
• Environmental factors: Experts believe that your surroundings may play a role in causing ulcerative colitis, especially if you have other risk factors.

Ulcerative colitis symptoms can vary a lot from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• blood in stool
• decreased appetite
• weight loss
• fatigue
• malnutrition, such as anemia
• decreased growth (in children)

Diverticulitis: Causes and symptoms

Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches or sacs develop in the lining of your colon (large intestine). These pouches in the wall of your colon can become infected or inflamed, causing a diverticulitis flare-up.

Although there’s no single cause of diverticulitis, it does become more common as you age. There are several other factors that can increase your risk of developing diverticulitis, such as:

• a family history of diverticulitis
• a diet that’s low in fiber
• a diet that’s high in red meat
• having obesity
• a sedentary lifestyle
• smoking
• decreased immune function
• certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids.

Symptoms of diverticulitis are mainly digestive in nature, and may be moderate to more severe. Typical symptoms of diverticulitis include:

• stomach pain, usually on the left side
• abdominal bloating
• constipation
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• nausea
• fever
• chills

Because both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis have digestive symptoms — and many symptoms that overlap — it’s not possible to tell which condition you have from symptoms alone. That’s why it’s vital to talk with your doctor if you have symptoms of either condition.

The type of physician that diagnoses these conditions is called a gastroenterologist. Many people visit their primary care provider (PCP) first with digestive symptoms, and then get a referral to a gastroenterologist if their PCP thinks a full workup and diagnosis is necessary.

Many of the tests used to help diagnose ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis are the same. Testing may include:

• blood tests to look for nutritional deficiencies and signs of infections
• stool tests
• a colonoscopy, to visualize the lining of the rectum and colon

If your doctor thinks you may have diverticulitis, you may also have imaging tests, such as an MRI, CT scan, or an ultrasound.

If ulcerative colitis is suspected, your doctor may also order a flexible sigmoidoscopy, which is used to view and analyze the lining of the rectum and lower colon. An ulcerative colitis diagnosis often also involves a biopsy of the large intestine.

Ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis have different treatment plans and treatment durations. Again, this is why it’s imperative to get a proper diagnosis so that your treatment plan is geared toward the correct condition.

Treatment for diverticulitis

Typically, treatment for diverticulitis has involved antibiotics to treat infections, along with dietary changes like increased fiber or fiber supplements. However, more recently, experts recommend preserving antibiotics for the most complicated cases of diverticulitis.

Sometimes medications are prescribed to decrease inflammation, and pain relievers are often used to reduce pain and discomfort as the infection clears.

Treatment for ulcerative colitis

Treatment for ulcerative colitis involves a combination of medication and dietary changes, and less commonly, surgery.

Most medications prescribed for ulcerative colitis aim to reduce inflammation in the colon. The type of medicine that’s prescribed will depend on the severity of the disease. Common medications include:

• Aminosalicylates: Recommended for people with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, this type of medication (also known as 5-ASA drugs), helps ease symptoms by decreasing inflammation in the colon.
• Corticosteroids: Used for mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, corticosteroids help decrease your body’s overall immune system response, which reduces inflammation. This medication is usually prescribed for people who don’t get symptom relief from aminosalicylates.
• Immunosuppressants: Prescribed for people with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis, immunosuppressants decrease your body’s response to its own immune system.
• Biologics: Developed in a lab from a living organism, these drugs prevent specific proteins in your body from causing inflammation. Biologic drugs are usually used to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.

Surgery is usually only recommended when patients don’t respond to other medical treatments.

Both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis can be serious, especially if untreated. While most people recover after an acute episode of diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis requires lifelong treatment.

If left untreated, ulcerative colitis can be severe. Complications may lead to:

• a perforated colon (hole in the wall of the large intestine)
• fulminant colitis (swelling and distention of the colon)
• toxic megacolon (abnormal and severe dilation of the colon)
• severe dehydration

Treatment of ulcerative colitis is usually effective and long periods of remission are possible. However, having ulcerative colitis may increase your risk of colorectal cancer, especially if the condition is more severe, starts at a younger age, or involves a larger portion of your intestine.

Complications of diverticulitis can include:

• an abscess in the intestine
• phlegmon (a reaction where the body tries to contain an infection)
• a fistula (an unnatural connection between one structure and another, for instance an opening between the bladder and colon)
• a perforated colon
• bowel obstruction (a blockage in the colon)
• secondary bouts of diverticulitis

Although treatment of diverticulitis is usually effective, about 20% to 50% of people will have recurrent symptoms. Diverticulitis is rarely fatal, though some studies have found that the condition slightly increases your chance of colorectal cancer.

Yes, it’s possible to have both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis at the same time. While there’s not a lot of research about this phenomenon, it’s considered a rare occurrence.

If you have any symptoms of diverticulitis or ulcerative colitis, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis to determine if you have one or the other condition, or both at the same time.

Ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis are both conditions that affect your digestive system. They have some symptoms in common, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stool. However, they are entirely different conditions, with different diagnoses and treatment plans.

If you have symptoms of either condition, it’s important to see your doctor to determine whether you have either of these conditions. Without the right treatment, both ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis can get worse and lead to potentially serious complications.

Diverticulitis vs. ulcerative colitis: A comparison

Diverticulitis refers to inflammation of the diverticula, which are small pouches that form in the colon lining. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) where people develop inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine.

In this article, we compare symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and outlook of both conditions.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

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Small pouches called diverticula can form in the colon lining and push out through weak spots in the outer wall of the colon. If a person has diverticula in their colon, they have what health experts refer to as diverticulosis.

Diverticulitis is a condition where the diverticula become inflamed. Around 10–25% of individuals with diverticulosis may have diverticulitis.

People may also use the term “diverticular disease” for diverticulitis or diverticular bleeding or if diverticula cause chronic symptoms.

UC is an IBD where an overreactive immune system causes inflammation and ulcers to develop in the lining of the large intestine.

UC is a chronic condition, and people may go through periods of remission, when they experience no symptoms of UC.

In the table below, we compare the two conditions:

	Diverticulitis	UC
Definition	Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches form in the intestinal lining and become inflamed.	UC is a type of IBD where an overactive immune response causes inflammation and ulcers in the intestinal lining.
Symptoms	Symptoms can include: • abdominal pain on one side • constipation • diarrhea • nausea • vomiting • fever • chills • rectal bleeding	Symptoms can include: • diarrhea • an urgent need for bowel movements • blood or mucus in stool • abdominal pain and cramping
Causes	There is no known cause, but the following may play a part: • genetics • diet low in fiber and high in red meat • immune system problems • changes in the microbiome • bacteria trapped in the diverticula	There is no known cause, but the following may play a role: • genetics • unusual immune system reactions • microbiomes in the digestive tract • environmental factors
Triggers	Low fiber consumption and high red meat intake may increase the risk of diverticulitis and complications.	Certain foods, such as spicy foods, lactose, and sugary foods, may trigger UC flares.
Treatment	Treatment options include: • antibiotics • a temporary clear liquid diet • pain relief medication • surgery to remove part of the colon, in some cases	Treatment can include medications to reduce inflammation, and, in some cases, surgery to remove the colon and rectum.
Cancer risk	There may be a slightly increased risk of colorectal cancer, with older adults and those with complicated diverticulitis being at higher risk.	There is an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Complications	Complications can include: • pelvic abscess • intestinal perforation • fistulas • peritonitis • bowel obstruction • sepsis • rectal bleeding	Complications can include: • rectal bleeding • iron deficiency anemia • expansion or tears in the colon • blood clots • primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) • toxic megacolon • intestinal perforation
Outlook	The outlook depends on a person’s age and overall health and the severity of diverticulitis. Treatment may result in none to mild symptoms in two-thirds of people.	UC requires long-term management. Treatment can help people maintain remission and live a relatively normal life.

In the sections below, we outline the symptoms of diverticulitis and UC.

Diverticulitis

Symptoms of diverticulitis may include:

• abdominal pain
• constipation or diarrhea
• fever
• chills
• nausea or vomiting
• increased urgency, frequency, or discomfort when urinating, if an inflamed part of the colon comes into contact with the wall of the bladder
• rectal bleeding

People with diverticulitis usually experience severe and sudden abdominal pain, but they may also have mild pain that worsens over several days. The pain may be constant or come and go. Also, over time, the pain intensity may vary.

UC

Symptoms of UC can be mild to severe and can include:

• persistent diarrhea
• rectal bleeding or blood in stool
• cramping or abdominal pain
• mucus or pus in stool
• an urgent need to have a bowel movement
• a persistent urge to have a bowel movement, even if bowels are empty

UC symptoms can come on suddenly or start gradually and then worsen over time.

Most people with UC have flares, which is when symptoms are present, and periods of remission, which is when no symptoms occur. Remission may last for weeks or years.

Healthcare professionals do not know the exact cause of either condition. However, they are aware of factors that can increase the likelihood of developing diverticulitis or UC.

Diverticulitis

There is no known cause of diverticulitis. Certain factors, however, may increase the risk of diverticular disease or cause its development. These include:

• genetics
• stool or bacteria becoming trapped in a pouch in the colon
• a change to the microbiome in the intestines
• issues with muscles, nerves, or connective tissue in the colon
• issues with the immune system

Lifestyle factors may also play a role, including:

• following a low fiber diet
• eating a diet high in red meat
• not engaging in physical activity
• taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids
• having obesity
• smoking

Diverticulitis affects both males and females. It is more common in males under the age of 50 years and in females aged 50–70 years. In people over 70 years, diverticulitis is more common in females.

UC

Health experts do not know the exact cause of UC. They think, however, that the following may play a role:

• Genetics: UC can run in families, so having certain genes may increase the risk of developing UC.
• Overactive immune system: The immune system creates temporary inflammation to help protect and heal the body from infection or illness. With UC, inflammation continues for longer than necessary, leading to chronic inflammation and ulcers in the intestinal lining.
• Microbiome: There may be differences between the microbiomes in the digestive tract of people with IBD and individuals without IBD.
• Environment: External factors and surroundings may affect a person’s genes, immune system, and microbiome, potentially playing a role in IBD.

People with UC or diverticulitis need to be careful about their dietary choices.

Diverticulitis

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), a diet low in fiber and high in red meat may increase the risk of diverticulitis.

Consuming more fiber and reducing red meat intake may lower the risk of diverticulitis and complications.

There is no evidence to suggest a link between eating nuts, seeds, or popcorn and an increased risk of diverticulitis or diverticular bleeding.

Learn more about the best foods for diverticulitis here.

UC

People may find that certain foods can trigger or worsen symptoms of UC.

Although different for each person, the following foods may trigger symptoms in some individuals:

• insoluble fiber, such as raw cruciferous vegetables, whole nuts, and whole grains
• lactose
• sugary foods
• high fat, fried, or greasy foods
• alcohol and caffeine
• spicy foods

Learn more about foods to eat and avoid with UC here.

Healthcare professionals may recommend the following treatment options:

Diverticulitis

Treatment for diverticulitis may include:

• antibiotics
• a temporary clear liquid diet, to allow the colon to rest
• pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen

In severe cases, people may require surgery to remove a section of the colon.

UC

Treatment for UC may include long-term use of medications to control inflammation, such as:

• immunosuppressants
• biologics
• corticosteroids
• aminosalicylates

A person may require surgery to remove the colon and rectum if their symptoms do not improve or if they have colorectal cancer or any serious complications.

Surgeons may also perform an ileostomy. They will attach the end of the ileum, which is a part of the small intestine, to an opening in the abdomen called a stoma. This allows the body to store and remove stools in an alternative way.

To diagnose each of the two conditions, doctors may carry out a physical examination and order the following:

• blood tests
• stool tests
• imaging tests, such as a CT scan, an MRI scan, and an ultrasound
• colonoscopy

A healthcare professional may order a colonoscopy to help diagnose diverticulitis and an endoscopy to diagnose UC.

Diverticulitis and UC can cause the following complications:

Diverticulitis

Complications of diverticulitis may include:

• a pelvic abscess, when an infection causes a pus-filled pocket in the pelvic area
• an intestinal perforation, which is a hole in the wall of the intestine
• a fistula, which is an abnormal opening that allows contents to leak out
• peritonitis, an infection in the lining of the abdomen
• a blockage in the intestines
• sepsis
• rectal bleeding

According to a 2020 meta-analysis, there is a small risk of colorectal cancer with diverticulitis. Older adults and those with complicated diverticulitis have a higher risk of developing this type of cancer.

UC

Complications of UC may include:

• rectal bleeding
• iron deficiency anemia
• expansion or tears in the colon
• blood clots
• PSC

Moreover, toxic megacolon and perforation are potential complications that may warrant emergency surgery and colectomy.

In long-term cases of UC, there is an increased risk of precancerous changes and colorectal cancer. PSC can also increase the risk of bile duct cancer.

People can take the following steps to help prevent UC and diverticulitis from developing:

Diverticulitis

Factors that may help lower the risk of developing diverticulitis include:

• eating a diet high in fiber and low in red meat
• engaging in regular physical activity
• avoiding smoking
• reaching or maintaining a moderate body weight

If people have diverticulitis without any complications, a doctor may suggest surgery to remove part of the colon to prevent diverticulitis from reoccurring.

UC

Preventive measures for UC include:

• avoiding smoking
• getting regular exercise
• eating a balanced diet
• avoiding trigger foods

The outlook for each condition can depend on a variety of factors.

Diverticulitis

The outlook for people with diverticulitis can depend on a range of factors, including:

• severity of the condition
• a person’s age and overall health
• any coexisting conditions

Most people with uncomplicated diverticulitis will have a positive response to treatment. Around 15% of people may require surgery to treat diverticulitis. After successful treatment, one-third of people will not have any symptoms, one-third will experience mild symptoms, and one-third will have recurrent diverticulitis.

UC

UC is a chronic condition that a person will need to manage throughout their life.

Managing flare-ups and uncomfortable symptoms can be difficult for some individuals, but effective treatment can help people lead a relatively normal life.

By managing their condition, some individuals with UC may experience remission for weeks or even years.

Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches form in the intestinal lining and become inflamed. UC is a type of IBD in which an overactive immune response causes inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine.

Medication and lifestyle factors can help manage both conditions, which in turn may help a person relieve symptoms or maintain remission.

In severe cases, people may require surgery to remove part of the colon or rectum.

symptoms, diagnosis, treatment of diverticulitis – Department of the State Hospital NCC No. 2 (CCH RAS)

Diverticula are areas of the intestine in which protrusion of tissues is observed. When inflammation of these areas occurs, intestinal diverticulitis begins. Inflammation is provoked by fecal masses that enter the diverticula and accumulate in them, irritating the walls and leading to the development of infection. Long-term malnutrition is considered the main cause of the onset of the disease. Adult patients usually suffer from diverticulitis – it develops in women and men over 60 years of age.

Causes of disease

The main factor that provokes the disease is malnutrition. This refers to the use of a large number of semi-finished products, low-quality food rich in fat and refined foods. Also, malnutrition includes reduced fiber intake. It is fiber in food that helps the proper movement of the masses through the intestines.

Localization of diverticulitis

The disease can affect different parts of the intestine:

• Diverticulitis of the small intestine – multiple protrusions of the mucosa through weak spots in the walls. In this zone, diverticula appear much less frequently than in the colon. The cause is believed to be a failure of peristalsis.
• Diverticulitis of the large intestine – masses up to two centimeters, often affecting elderly patients. The reason is malnutrition, the predominance of animal food over plant food.
• Diverticulitis of the sigmoid colon – a degenerative tissue disorder that appears as a result of a violation of peristalsis and vascular pathologies.

Symptoms of diverticulitis

When the disease begins, its symptoms in most cases are absent. Only when the disease passes into the chronic stage, there are signs by which it can be identified. Among the warning signs that indicate the presence of problems:

• Bloating, excessive flatulence.
• Traces of blood in the stool.
• Increased body temperature.
• Pain in the lower abdomen and back.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Decreased appetite.
• Cold sweat.

Disease diagnosis

This serious complication requires immediate diagnosis, analysis of symptoms and treatment. The initial task of the doctor is to distinguish diverticulitis from stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. It all starts with a patient interview, a medical history, and an initial examination. Diagnostic methods that are used for suspected diverticulitis:

• Colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Irrigoscopy
• Computed tomography of the intestine
• X-ray of the intestines
• ultrasound
• Clinical analysis of urine and blood

Treatment of disease

There is a resolution of diverticulitis without special treatment due to the normalization of nutrition and diet. With a serious stage of the disease, how to treat it is determined individually and often in a hospital. In this case, the patient is given antibiotics and other supportive drugs. The operation is performed in order to separate the affected part of the intestine. Such a measure is required quite rarely:

• If the disease is severely advanced. There are fistulas, perforations, abscesses.
• When antibiotics do not help get rid of the problem.
• There is bleeding, peritonitis.

Risk of complications

Most of the complications of diverticulitis are associated with perforation, leakage of feces through the walls of the intestine:

• Abscess – removal of the affected part or puncture is required.
• Peritonitis is the spread of infection into the abdominal cavity. The operation is necessary to cleanse the abdominal cavity and remove part of the intestine.
• Intestinal obstruction – scarring resulting in partial or complete occlusion of the lumen.
• Fistula – An abnormal connection of an organ or organ to the skin.

Which doctor to contact

With diverticulitis of the colon, an appointment with a proctologist and gastroenterologist is necessary to determine the causes of the disease. You may also need to consult a surgeon, therapist, endoscopy.

To get a consultation with a proctologist, to go through other specialists, the clinic NCC No. 2 (Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences) offers. We have only highly professional staff, modern methods of effective diagnosis and treatment of any diseases.

treatment, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, prevention, consequences and classification of the disease

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Diverticulosis is a chronic disease in which numerous protrusions in the form of sacs form in the intestinal wall. If the foci of protrusion become inflamed, the disease flows into diverticulitis. The pathological process can be localized in any part of the gastrointestinal tract, but in most cases it is detected in the sigmoid and colon.

About the disease Classification Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Doctor’s opinion Treatment Prevention Rehabilitation

About disease

Diverticulosis can occur at any age. The lowest rate of detected pathology in children, adolescents and youth. After the age of 30, the incidence of diverticula formation gradually increases and reaches a peak by the age of 70. Among patients with this diagnosis, the number of men and women is approximately the same.

Types of diverticulitis

Classification of diverticulitis is carried out according to the localization of changes characteristic of the disease. They can be located:

• in the sigmoid colon – in a third of patients;
• in the colon – in 12-15%;
• in the sigmoid and colon – in 30-40%;
• in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract – about 15%.

A distinction is also made between western (in 95% of patients) and eastern (in 5%) types of diverticulosis. In the first case, the left part of the large intestine is affected, in the second, the right part. The name of the subtypes is associated with the geographical distribution of the eastern type among the inhabitants of the countries of the East. In Russia, the Western type is usually diagnosed.

Depending on the structure of formations, diverticulosis can be:

• true;
• is false if the structure of the wall of the protrusion does not include the muscle layer.

According to the nature of the course, there are:

• asymptomatic diverticulosis;
• symptomatic diverticulosis: the patient notes the characteristic symptoms of the disease;
• acute diverticulitis with a bright clinical picture;
• complicated diverticulitis: accompanied by bleeding, perforation (rupture) of the intestine and other conditions.

According to the method of formation of protrusions in diverticulosis, they can be pulsation, arising under pressure, or traction, formed due to bowel tension. This condition usually occurs against the background of adhesive disease.

Symptoms of diveticulosis and diverticulitis

Diverticulosis may be asymptomatic or accompanied by non-specific symptoms:

• blood in the stool;
• persistent bloating, flatulence;
• constipation, rarely diarrhea;
• discomfort, pain during the urge to empty the bowels.

When an inflammatory process joins, i.e. the development of diverticulitis, the symptoms become more pronounced and are accompanied by signs of an inflammatory process:

• fever up to 38 degrees;
• chills, weakness, headache;
• abdominal pain: may be permanent or intermittent, aggravated by exertion, straining, sneezing and coughing, palpation of the abdomen; a characteristic symptom is increased pain after a bowel movement.

Depending on the location of the inflamed area, the symptoms of diverticulitis may resemble acute appendicitis (pain on the right side), gastritis (pain in the upper middle part of the abdomen), urinary tract pathology (pain in the suprapubic region, often aggravated by urination). The chronic form of the disease has a mild clinical picture: the manifestations of the disease can either appear or disappear. If treatment is not carried out on time, complications of diverticulitis may develop:

• abscess: abscess formation;
• perforation: rupture of diverticulum tissue;
• intestinal obstruction due to adhesions;
• peritonitis: inflammation of the peritoneum;
• intra-intestinal bleeding;
• malignant tumor.

Pathology may be accompanied by general weakness due to chronic inflammation and impaired absorption of nutrients from food.

Causes of diverticulitis

The development of diverticulosis occurs in violation of the properties of the connective tissue, which loses its elasticity. This is directly related to age, so older people develop the disease several times more often than young people.

The second cause of diverticulosis is a violation of the diet, when the diet is high in animal products and low in fiber, plant fibers.

Reduced motility of the intestinal tract leads to increased pressure inside the intestine and impaired blood supply to the tissues of the digestive system. Atrophy deforms the intestinal tissue, so the pressure easily pushes the mucous out, into the muscle layer, forming sac-like protrusions – diverticulosis. Sometimes the weakness of the connective tissue apparatus of the intestinal walls is congenital, due to genetic factors.

Diverticulitis can be a consequence of an inflammatory process in the intestine: spastic, ulcerative or infectious colitis, infectious diseases, helminthic invasions. Imbalance of the microflora leads to a decrease in local immunity and an increased risk of developing the disease. There is also a hereditary predisposition to diverticulitis.

Diagnosis of diverticulitis

At the initial appointment, the doctor will find out the symptoms that are disturbing the patient, conduct an examination, palpation of the peritoneal organs, and study the anamnesis. The main methods of examination for suspected diverticulitis are:

• colonoscopy: endoscopic examination of the colon using a flexible tube with a camera inserted through the anus;
• barium enema: x-ray taken after the introduction of a contrast agent into the intestine;
• laparoscopy (rare): examination through an endoscopic probe inserted through an incision in the anterior wall of the peritoneum;
• computed tomography: a non-invasive method for diagnosing diverticulitis using a series of x-ray images in the form of layered sections.

Additionally, ultrasound of the abdominal organs, a clinical blood test to identify markers of inflammation (increased ESR, lymphocytosis) and the consequences of bleeding (hemoglobin level), fecal occult blood analysis, as well as blood biochemistry to assess the functionality of organs located near the localization area of ​​diverticulitis are prescribed.

If the patient requires surgical treatment of diverticulitis, at the preparation stage, the examination plan includes an ECG, tests for HIV, viral hepatitis and syphilis, and a coagulogram.

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Doctor’s opinion

Treatment of diverticulitis

Conservative therapy for diverticulitis involves the appointment of:

• antibiotics;
• antispasmodics;
• anti-inflammatory agents;
• prokinetics to stimulate gastrointestinal motility;
• symptomatic drugs according to indications.

Medical nutrition at the stage of exacerbation should be sparing. The patient eats food in small portions, completely excluding foods that can cause increased gas formation and indigestion. As you recover, it is recommended to increase the amount of foods high in fiber: vegetables, fruits, cereals. Diverticulitis is treated on an outpatient basis, without hospitalization, but with regular consultations with a gastroenterologist.

Surgery is necessary for complications of diverticulosis or their high risk, severe condition against the background of inflammation:

• Drainage. It is prescribed for an abscess and allows you to remove purulent contents with a hollow tube and several punctures of the abdomen.
• Removal of a piece of intestine. With peritonitis, the inflamed part is excised, in some cases a stoma is formed – an opening in the abdomen to remove its contents.

After surgery, diverticulosis may continue to develop if the causes and precipitating factors have not been eliminated. After the completion of the rehabilitation period, it is necessary to carry out conservative treatment to prevent relapse, which occurs in 20% of cases.

Prevention of diverticulitis

Diverticulosis and diverticulitis can be prevented by a balanced diet with sufficient fiber and fluids. The progression of the disease and the appearance of noticeable symptoms are often facilitated by constipation, which increases pressure within the gastrointestinal tract. It is important to ensure that bowel movements are regular and painless.

Also, prevention of diverticulitis includes:

• a sufficient level of physical activity;
• control of the course of chronic diseases;
• regular examination by a general practitioner;
• maintenance of immunity;
• giving up bad habits;
• normalization of body weight.

Diverticulosis may not interfere with a full-fledged life of a person, not manifest itself and not turn into diverticulitis, if all the prescriptions of the attending physician are observed.

Rehabilitation after surgical treatment of diverticulitis

Rehabilitation treatment after the operation is carried out in a hospital during the first 1-2 weeks. The patient is shown a sparing regimen, clinical nutrition, antibiotics to reduce the risk of infectious complications. After normalization of well-being, the treatment is completed on an outpatient basis, at home, and does not require special measures. After discharge, it is necessary to limit physical activity and weight lifting, as well as follow the rules for the prevention of diverticulitis.

Sources

Author of the article

Senko Vladimir Vladimirovich
Head of the Center for Surgery and Oncology Work experience more than 23 years

Popular questions

No, but one disease is a consequence of another. Diverticulosis is a pathology in which several diverticula occur in the digestive system. When they become inflamed, the patient is diagnosed with diverticulitis.