Is diverticulitis an autoimmune disease? Discover the gastrointestinal manifestations in systemic autoimmune diseases and the relationship between diverticulitis and autoimmune conditions.

Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis: Distinguishing the Conditions

Diverticulosis occurs when small defects in the muscle of the wall of the large intestine or colon allow small pockets or pouches (diverticula) to form. Diverticulitis, on the other hand, is the infection or inflammation of these abnormal pouches. Together, these conditions are referred to as diverticular disease. Despite having some symptoms in common, diverticular disease is not associated with more serious conditions, such as bowel cancer. However, diverticulitis is often a medical emergency, requiring immediate medical attention and, frequently, admission to the hospital. Mild attacks can be treated at home, but should always be assessed promptly.

Causes of Diverticular Disease

Diverticulosis is extremely common, with old age and diet being the most important risk factors. More than half of all adults over the age of 70 have the condition, although most are unaware of it. Diverticulosis is less common in people under 50. Studies suggest that diverticulosis became more prevalent in the 20th century, particularly in “Western” nations like North America, Europe, and Australia, compared to Asia and Africa. This has led to the theory that a low-fiber diet common in Western nations may play a role. Animal studies support this theory, and it has been shown that vegetarians are less likely to develop diverticulosis.

While the exact mechanism of how a low-fiber diet may cause diverticulosis is not fully understood, there may also be genetic factors involved. Interestingly, Western people tend to develop diverticulosis in the last third of the colon, while people in Asian countries generally develop it in the first section of the colon. Even in the Japanese population living in Hawaii, the risk of diverticulosis is higher than those living in Japan, but the location of diverticulosis remains in the “Japanese” area of the colon.

Diverticulitis, on the other hand, is thought to occur when a small puncture develops in the diverticular wall, leading to a small infection that often forms an abscess.

Symptoms of Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis

Diverticulosis is usually asymptomatic, meaning it has no symptoms. However, when many diverticula (pouches) are present, the normal smooth working of the bowel can be affected, leading to a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain and bloating, constipation and diarrhea, flatulence, and minor bleeding in the feces, which can sometimes be heavy if a diverticulum is inflamed or near a blood vessel. Anemia from repeated bleeding may also occur.

Symptoms of diverticulitis, on the other hand, include sharp pain (often located in the lower left half of the abdomen), fever, distension (bloating) of the abdomen, and nausea and vomiting.

Complications of Diverticular Disease

Diverticular disease can lead to several potentially serious complications, including abscess formation, perforation of the weakened bowel wall (which can lead to a life-threatening condition called peritonitis), and hemorrhage. It’s important to note that a person with diverticulosis can also develop colorectal cancer, although this is not a direct complication of the diverticular disease itself.

Diagnosing Diverticular Disease

Since diverticulosis is often asymptomatic, it is frequently discovered during examinations for other conditions, such as colorectal cancer. Diverticulitis, on the other hand, is usually diagnosed during an acute attack. Diagnostic tests for diverticular disease may include a medical history, physical examination, colonoscopy, barium enema, CT scan, blood tests, and stool tests.

Is Diverticulitis an Autoimmune Disease?

No, diverticulitis is not considered an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases are characterized by the body’s immune system attacking its own healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. While diverticulitis involves inflammation of the intestinal pouches (diverticula), it is not caused by an autoimmune process.

That said, some research has suggested a possible link between certain autoimmune conditions and an increased risk of developing diverticular disease. For example, studies have found that individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, may have a higher risk of developing diverticulosis and diverticulitis. The exact nature of this relationship is still being investigated, but it is thought that the chronic inflammation associated with autoimmune conditions may contribute to the development of diverticular disease.

Gastrointestinal Manifestations in Systemic Autoimmune Diseases

While diverticulitis itself is not an autoimmune condition, the gastrointestinal tract can be affected in various ways by systemic autoimmune diseases. Some examples of autoimmune conditions that can have gastrointestinal manifestations include:

• Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
• Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis)
• Sjögren’s syndrome
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis

These autoimmune conditions can affect the gastrointestinal tract in various ways, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, malabsorption, and even gastrointestinal bleeding. It’s important for individuals with autoimmune diseases to be aware of the potential gastrointestinal complications and to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage these issues.

Diverticulosis and diverticulitis – Better Health Channel

Diverticulosis occurs when small defects in the muscle of the wall of the large intestine or colon allow small pockets or pouches (diverticula) to form. Diverticulitis is infection or inflammation of these abnormal pouches. Together, these conditions are called diverticular disease.

Despite having some symptoms in common, diverticular disease isn’t associated with more serious conditions, such as bowel cancer. However, diverticulitis is often a medical emergency, requiring immediate medical attention and, frequently, admission to hospital. Mild attacks can be treated at home, but should always be assessed promptly.

Causes of diverticular disease

Diverticulosis is extremely common. Old age and diet may be the most important risk factors. More than half of all adults over the age of 70 have the condition. Most of these people are unaware that they have diverticulosis.

Diverticulosis is less common in people under 50. Studies appear to show that diverticulosis became more common in the 20^th century. It is also more common in ‘Western’ nations including North America, Europe and Australia. It is less common in Asia and very uncommon in Africa.

Discovery of these facts led to the theory that the low-fibre diet common in Western nations may be important. Animal studies show that this theory is possible. It has also been shown that vegetarians less commonly develop diverticulosis. Exactly how a low-fibre diet may cause diverticulosis is not known.

There may also be genetic causes. It is interesting that Western people develop diverticulosis in the last third of the colon, while people in Asian countries – such as Japan, Taiwan and Singapore – generally develop diverticulosis in the first section of the colon. In the Japanese population living in Hawaii, the risk of diverticulosis is higher than those living in Japan. However, when diverticulosis develops in these people, it is still in the ‘Japanese’ location – the first third of the colon.

Diverticulitis seems to occur when a small puncture develops in the diverticular wall. This causes a small infection to develop, often forming an abscess.

Symptoms of diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is usually asymptomatic (has no symptoms). However, when many diverticula (pouches) are present, the normal smooth working of the bowel can be affected. This may cause a range of symptoms including:

• abdominal pain and bloating
• constipation and diarrhoea
• flatulence
• blood in the faeces – this is usually minor, but bleeding can sometimes be heavy if a diverticulum gets inflamed or is near a blood vessel
• anaemia from repeated bleeding may occur.

Many of these symptoms are similar to those of bowel cancer. Diverticulosis is more common, so these symptoms may be more likely to be due to diverticulosis than cancer. However, a specialist will usually assess these symptoms – your doctor will refer you.

Symptoms of diverticulitis

Symptoms of diverticulitis include:

• sharp pain, often located at a specific point – for example, in the lower left half of the abdomen
• fever
• distension (bloating) of the abdomen
• nausea and vomiting.

Complications of diverticular disease

Some of the possible complications of diverticular disease include:

• Abscess – untreated, diverticulitis may lead to an abscess (a ball of pus).
• Perforation – a weakened pocket of bowel wall may rupture. The contents of the bowel can then seep into the abdominal cavity. Symptoms include pain, high fever and chills. A perforated bowel is a medical emergency.
• Peritonitis – perforation can lead to peritonitis (infection of the membranes that line the abdominal cavity and abdominal organs). This complication is potentially life threatening.
• Haemorrhage – diverticula can be the source of haemorrhage. When bleeding occurs, it is important to exclude other causes. A person with diverticulosis can also get cancer.

Diagnosis of diverticular disease

Since diverticulosis is often asymptomatic (without symptoms), it tends to be discovered during examinations for other conditions such as colorectal cancer. Diverticulitis is usually diagnosed during an acute attack.

Tests to confirm the diagnosis of diverticular disease include:

• medical history – including dietary habits
• physical examination – including rectal examination
• colonoscopy – a slender flexible tube inserted into the anus so that the doctor can look at the entire length of the large intestine
• barium enema – a special contrasting dye flushed into the bowel via the anus and x-rays are taken
• CT scan – to detect abscesses outside the bowel lining
• blood tests – to check for signs of infection
• stool tests – to check for the presence of blood in the faeces or the presence of infections, which may mimic the symptoms of diverticulosis and diverticulitis.

Treatment for diverticulosis

For a person with diverticulosis, there is no proven way to prevent the formation of new diverticula. Treatment revolves around the settling of symptoms.

• A gradual switch to a diet with increased soluble fibre (green vegetables, oat bran and fibre supplements such as psyllium) usually leads to an improvement in bowel habit and mild symptoms.
• Some foods may make symptoms worse or even lead to diverticulitis. Nuts, seeds and pips are best avoided, while some people find avoiding legumes (peas and beans) and sweet corn also helps.
• Short-term use of laxatives to treat and prevent constipation may be advised.
• Rarely, elective surgery is performed to remove seriously affected bowel segments when symptoms are disabling.

Treatment for diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is often a medical emergency, requiring immediate medical attention and, frequently, admission to hospital. Mild attacks can be treated at home, but should always be assessed promptly. Treatment may include:

• no eating or drinking – intravenous fluids are given to rest the bowel
• antibiotics
• pain-relieving medication
• surgery – if the weakened sections of bowel wall have ruptured or become obstructed, or if the attack of infection fails to settle
• colostomy – if it isn’t possible to rejoin the healthy sections of bowel, a colostomy bag will be fitted. This is more common if the surgery is performed as an emergency. The use of a colostomy is generally temporary and the bowel can be rejoined after six to 12 months, if health permits
• the long-term use of a mild antibiotic – this is often necessary to prevent further attacks.

Self-care suggestions

Suggestions include:

• Increase your daily intake of green vegetables. Introduce fibre gradually to avoid unpleasant symptoms such as flatulence.
• Consider using a fibre supplement (such as psyllium).
• Drink plenty of fluids to ensure your stools are soft, moist and easy to pass.
• Exercise regularly to encourage bowel function and peristalsis.

Where to get help

Lymphocytic Colitis | Cedars-Sinai

Not what you’re looking for?

What is lymphocytic colitis?

Lymphocytic colitis is a health problem that causes inflammation of your large intestine.
It causes episodes of watery diarrhea and belly pain.

Your large intestine is part of your digestive (gastrointestinal or GI) tract. It
includes both the colon and rectum. It goes from your mouth all the way to your rectal
opening. The large intestine receives the broken-down products of food from the small
intestine. One of its main jobs is to reabsorb water and electrolytes, such as salt.
The colon leads to the rectum, which stores your feces before your body expels them.

In lymphocytic colitis, inflammatory cells from your immune system travel to your
large intestine. Here they cause swelling and inflammation of the tissues. In rare
cases, these cells also invade the latter part of the small intestine. Immune cells
(lymphocytes) may build up in the area as well. The inflammation may keep your large
intestine from reabsorbing as much water as it should. This leads to diarrhea, belly
pain, and other symptoms.

Lymphocytic colitis is one type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a group
of
conditions that cause inflammation in either the small or large intestine. Lymphocytic
colitis is a type of microscopic colitis. Microscopic colitis is inflammation of the
large intestine that can only be seen through a microscope. The other main type of
microscopic colitis is collagenous colitis. Some experts think lymphocytic colitis
and
collagenous colitis might be the same illness presented in different ways.

Lymphocytic colitis is not common. It’s more common in older adults. But it can affect
younger adults and children. It’s also seen more in women than in men.

What causes lymphocytic colitis?

Experts are trying to understand what causes the inflammation of the large intestine
that leads to lymphocytic colitis. Some people think that something in the GI tract
triggers this abnormal immune response. This might be bacteria, pollen, or food.

Taking certain medicines may also trigger the condition in some people. These medicines
can include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These can include aspirin or ibuprofen.
• Acid reflux medicines
• High cholesterol medicines
• Diabetes medicines
• Medicines to treat depression

Certain bacteria may trigger lymphocytic colitis in some people. You might have your
first episode after getting sick from bacteria. These can include Campylobacter jejuni
or Clostridium difficile. Toxins in these bacteria may harm the inner surface of your
large intestine. This can cause inflammation. Some experts think certain viruses may
also play a role in lymphocytic colitis.

Some foods may bring on the condition in some people. Certain foods may also make
lymphocytic colitis symptoms worse. These can include caffeine and milk products.
 

Who is at risk for lymphocytic colitis?

Having certain health issues may increase your risk for the disease. These include:

• Diabetes
• Celiac disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Certain
  types of thyroid disease

Being a smoker may increase your risk for the issue. Smoking interferes with the blood
flow that your intestines need. Your risk for lymphocytic colitis may also be higher
if someone in your family has the condition or another inflammatory bowel disease.

What are the symptoms of lymphocytic colitis?

The main symptom of lymphocytic colitis is watery diarrhea. This diarrhea does not
have blood. You may have several of these watery bowel movements each day. This may
last for weeks or months. For most people, this diarrhea goes away for a while, but
then it comes back later.

Other symptoms of lymphocytic colitis may include:

• Weight loss
• Belly pain
• Bloating
• Dehydration
• Nausea
• Fatigue or weakness
• Joint pain
• Not being able to control a bowel movement

How is lymphocytic colitis diagnosed?

You
may need to see a gastroenterologist. This is a healthcare provider with special
training to treat problems of the digestive tract.  

Your healthcare provider will ask you about your health history. He or she will also
ask about your symptoms. Your healthcare provider will give you an exam, including
an exam of your belly (abdomen).

Your healthcare provider will rule out other causes of your diarrhea. These can include
an infection or another inflammatory bowel disease.

Your healthcare provider will also do other tests. These may include:

• Blood
  tests to check for anemia and infection
• Tests for celiac disease
• Stool
  analysis to check for inflammation or infection

You may also need a colonoscopy. This test looks at the lining of your colon and rectum.
It uses a light and a tiny camera.

The
colon often looks normal on a colonoscopy. During the colonoscopy, your healthcare
provider can take out a small tissue sample of your colon. This is called a biopsy.
Then he or she will look at it under a microscope to tell if you have lymphocytic
colitis.

How is lymphocytic colitis treated?

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines and suggest diet changes to treat
your condition.

Medicines

Your healthcare provider may give you antidiarrheal medicines. You may also need
budesonide, mesalamine, bismuth subsalicylate, or cholestyramine if you still have
symptoms.

If the medicines you take make your symptoms worse, your healthcare provider may stop
your treatment with those medicines.

Most people only need to take medicines for a short time. The majority of people respond
well to medicines. If your symptoms come back, you might need to start taking these
medicines again for a short time.

Changing your diet

You may need to stay away from foods that make your diarrhea worse. These can
include dairy products, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and foods high in fat. Some
people with this condition also do well on a gluten-free diet.

If you don’t respond well to treatment, your healthcare provider may look for other
possible causes of your symptoms. In rare cases, healthcare providers recommend surgery
to take out part of the intestines.

What are possible complications of
lymphocytic colitis?

Unlike other forms of inflammatory bowel disease, lymphocytic colitis doesn’t seem
to increase your risk for colon cancer. It does not increase your risk of death from
any cause.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider if your symptoms don’t go away with treatment. Your
healthcare provider may change your treatment plan.

Key points about lymphocytic colitis

• Lymphocytic colitis is a condition that affects your large intestine. It leads to
  episodes of watery diarrhea and belly pain.
• Bacterial and viral infections, certain medicines, or certain foods may trigger lymphocytic
  colitis in some people.
• Symptoms of lymphocytic colitis include watery diarrhea, belly pain, and fatigue.
• You may have a colonoscopy to diagnose this condition. During this test, your healthcare
  provider may take out a sample of your large intestine and look at it through a microscope.
• You may
  need to take medicines to treat your condition. You may also need to stay away from
  certain foods and medicines that trigger your symptoms.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells
  you.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments,
  or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also
  know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
• Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
• If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that
  visit.
• Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN

Medical Reviewer: John Hanrahan MD

Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN

© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.

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Annapolis, MD & Kent Island Stevensville, MD

Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, PA

At Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. in Annapolis, Stevensville, Odenton, Bowie, Greenbelt, and Pasadena, Maryland, patients can expect high-quality gastroenterology care from experts in the field.

One of the top surgical centers in the country and No. 2 in Maryland, the gastroenterology practice is known for providing efficient, patient-focused care in a private and comfortable setting. The highly trained team thoroughly investigates patients’ symptoms, like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and difficulty in swallowing, using advanced tools and technology and offers practical solutions to improve digestive health.

Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates offers a full spectrum of services to diagnose and treat digestive disorders, including esophageal manometry, colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

The gastroenterology practice specializes in the diagnosis and management of many gastrointestinal conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hemorrhoids, gallstones, liver disease, pancreatic disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease. Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. is a state-of-the-art practice that puts patients’ needs first. Call the office or book an appointment online today.

Celiac Disease | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Celiac disease is a digestive problem that hurts your small intestine. It stops your body from taking in nutrients from food.

You may have celiac disease if you are sensitive to gluten. Gluten is a kind of protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes in small amounts in mixed oats.

When you have celiac disease and you eat foods with gluten, your body has a reaction that is not normal. The part of your body that fights disease (the immune system) starts to hurt your small intestine. It attacks the tiny bumps (villi) that line your small intestine.

The villi help your body take in nutrients from food into your bloodstream. Without the villi, your small intestine can’t get enough nutrients, no matter how much food you eat.

Celiac disease is genetic. This means it can be passed down from parent to child.

More than 2 million Americans have been diagnosed with celiac disease. Studies show that as many as 1 in every 133 Americans may have it. They may not know they have it.

Celiac disease is more common in people:

• Whose ancestors came from Europe

• Who are white

• Who have type 1 diabetes

• Who have Down syndrome

• Who have other autoimmune diseases

• Who are infertile

• Who have irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea

What causes celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a genetic disease that runs in families. You may have celiac disease and not know it because you don’t have any symptoms.

Some things that may make symptoms start to appear are:

• Too much stress

• Pregnancy

• Surgery

• Physical injury

• Infection

• Childbirth

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

Celiac disease affects people in different ways. Some have symptoms as children. Others have symptoms only as adults. Some people have diarrhea and belly (abdominal) pain. Others may feel moody or depressed.

Each person’s symptoms may vary. Common signs of celiac disease include:

• Constant (chronic) diarrhea or constipation

• Weight loss

• Gas

• Pale, bad-smelling stool

• Unexplained low blood count that makes you feel tired (anemia)

• Tingling, numb feeling in the legs

• Missed menstrual periods (linked to too much weight loss)

• Infertility

• Early osteoporosis or fractures

• Teeth changing color or losing their enamel

Celiac disease can be painful. Some common pain symptoms are:

Children who have celiac disease may not grow at a normal rate.

You may have celiac disease but not have any symptoms. That is because the part of your small intestine that is not hurt can still take in enough nutrients. But you may still be at risk for problems of the disease.

Celiac disease symptoms may look like other health problems. Always see your healthcare provider to be sure.

How is celiac disease diagnosed?

Celiac disease can be hard to diagnose. Its symptoms may look like symptoms of other digestive problems such as:

To see if you have celiac disease, your healthcare provider will look at your past health and do a physical exam. You may also have tests such as:

• Blood work. This is done to check the level of infection-fighting cells (antibodies) you have to gluten in your blood. People with celiac disease have higher than normal levels of these cells. Your immune system makes these cells to help fight things (such as gluten) that the body feels are a danger.

• Biopsy. This is the most accurate way to tell if you have celiac disease. A tissue sample (biopsy) is taken from your small intestine to check for damage to the villi. To do this, a long, thin tube (endoscope) is placed in your mouth, down to your stomach and into your small intestine. A tissue sample is taken using tools passed through the tube. The sample is checked in a lab.

What is the treatment for celiac disease?

If you have celiac disease, you must stop eating gluten. Eating gluten will do more damage to your small intestine. Eliminating gluten is the only treatment for this disease. You must not eat gluten for the rest of your life.

In most cases, taking gluten out of your diet will stop your symptoms. And, any damage to your intestine will heal. It will also stop any more damage from happening.

Removing gluten from your diet can be difficult. This is because gluten can contaminate many foods. It can be found in condiments, salad dressings, and other unexpected places. For this reason, your healthcare provider may refer you to a dietitian who specializes in celiac disease.

After you stop eating foods with gluten, your symptoms will likely get better in a few days. Your small intestine should heal completely in 3 to 6 months. Your villi will be back and working again. If you are older, it may take up to 2 years for your body to heal.

Key points

• Celiac disease is a digestive problem that hurts your small intestine. It stops your body from taking in nutrients from food.

• You may have celiac disease if you are sensitive to gluten.

• If you have celiac disease and eat foods with gluten, your immune system starts to hurt your small intestine.

• Celiac disease is genetic. This means it can be passed from parent to child.

• It is more common in people who are white, have type 1 diabetes, are obese, or have ancestors from Europe.

• You may have celiac disease and not know it because you don’t have any symptoms.

• It can be hard to diagnose. Its symptoms can look like symptoms of other digestive problems.

• The only treatment is to stop eating gluten.

• Once you stop eating gluten, your body will start to heal.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.

• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.

• At the visit, write down the names of new medicines, treatments, or tests, and any new instructions your provider gives you.

• If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.

• Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

Continue Reading

diverticulitis | Smart Patients

diverticulitis

Inflammation of one or more pouches or sacs that bulge out from the wall of a hollow organ, such as the colon. Symptoms include muscle spasms and cramps in the abdomen.

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Recent conversations about diverticulitis

Related Topics

• A place to share news, ideas, and research of interest for more than one disease. Cooperation is powerful.

• A condition marked by small sacs or pouches in the walls of a hollow organ, such as the colon. These sacs can become inflamed and cause a condition called diverticulitis.

• Physical suffering from illness or injury.

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Autoimmune Hepatitis | Acadiana Gastroenterology Associates

Autoimmune hepatitis is inflammation of the liver that develops when your immune system mistakes normal cells in the liver for invasive cells and attacks them. Autoimmune hepatitis is a type of autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system is unable to differentiate between healthy bodily tissue and harmful, invasive substances.

In patients that suffer from autoimmune diseases like autoimmune hepatitis, the immune system attacks and destroys normal body tissues, often leaving the patient weakened and more susceptible to illness. Other types of autoimmune diseases include inflammatory bowel disease and ulcerative colitis.

Autoimmune hepatitis most frequently develops in young girls and women, and is often found in relatives of others with the condition, which suggests that the disease may have genetic components to it.

Autoimmune hepatitis is classified as either type one or type two. Type one is the most common type of the condition in the United States, and often develops during adolescence, though it can onset at any age. Type-two autoimmune hepatitis generally affects young girls between the age of two and fourteen.

Autoimmune hepatitis is often chronic, and if left untreated may lead to cirrhosis of the liver.

Symptoms of Autoimmune Hepatitis

One of the most common symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis is fatigue. Those who are in the more advanced stages of the condition often experience symptoms that are related to chronic liver disease, such as fluid in the abdomen and mental confusion. Women with advanced autoimmune hepatitis may stop having their menstrual period.

The most common signs and symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis range from mild to severe, and include:

• An enlarged liver
• Jaundice
• Itching
• Rashes on the skin
• Joint pain
• Abdominal discomfort
• Abnormal blood vessels
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine
• Pale or gray-colored stools

Diagnosis of Autoimmune Hepatitis

The symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis are similar to a number of other autoimmune disorders, so your gastroenterologist will likely recommend a number of tests to ensure the proper diagnosis. In some situations, certain medications such as antibiotics could cause viral hepatitis, so your physician may review and remove certain medicines from your diet prior to offering a diagnosis.

If your gastroenterologist suspects that you have autoimmune hepatitis, then he may recommend a blood test so he can evaluate your blood for antibodies, or for certain trends that are typical of hepatitis. A liver biopsy may also be recommended, during which your physician will obtain a tissue sample from your liver for further evaluation.

Treatment for Autoimmune Hepatitis

If you are diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis then your gastroenterologist will provide you with details about treatment options that are ideal for you. Treatment for autoimmune hepatitis often works best when the condition is diagnosed early.

One of the primary forms of treatment for autoimmune hepatitis is medication to suppress the overactive immune system. In nearly 70% of individuals, autoimmune hepatitis will go into remission within three years of treatment. Although the condition may enter remission, your gastroenterologist may recommend that you continue treatment after the symptoms are gone to prevent the condition from returning.

Bowel Diseases – Gastroenterology – Departments

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is defined as a functional bowel disease in which abdominal pain or discomfort is associated with defecation or changes in stool consistency and a characteristic defecation disorder. The characteristic of the syndrome assumes special approaches to the diagnosis, differential diagnosis and implementation of the patient’s treatment program.

2.Diverticular disease of the colon – Diverticular disease (diverticulosis) of the colon is a morpho-functional pathological process, a characteristic feature of which is the presence of saccular protrusions of the colon wall (diverticula). Diverticula are a manifestation of various pathological conditions, among which dystrophic changes in the muscular wall of the colon, discoordination of its motility, congenital or acquired weakness of the connective tissue, vascular changes in the intestinal wall are of leading importance.Dystrophy of the intestinal muscular apparatus occurs, in particular, in the elderly as a manifestation of general degenerative processes, the development of atherosclerosis with ischemic disorders. In addition, some patients have congenital connective tissue weakness associated with impaired collagen synthesis, which manifests itself in the formation of hernial protrusions of the abdominal wall, diaphragm, etc.

3. Intestinal dysbiosis. Intestinal dysbiosis is a clinical and laboratory syndrome associated with a change in the composition of the intestinal microflora, both qualitative and quantitative, with the possible development of gastrointestinal disorders.The main reasons for the development of dysbiosis are long-term and uncontrolled use of antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, radiation exposure, inappropriate nutrition, acute or chronic intestinal infections , n arasitic bowel diseases (ascariasis) , with 9000 accompanying a decrease in immunity (oncological diseases, diabetes mellitus, liver cirrhosis, AIDS, and others), old age.

4. Ulcerative colitis – a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease, predominantly of the mucous membrane of the large intestine, with one or another prevalence of the process. The etiology (cause) of the disease is still unknown. Autoimmune damage to the tissues of the walls of the large intestine is assumed. This assumption is based on the fact that in most cases ulcerative nonspecific colitis is associated with other autoimmune diseases (systemic vasculitis, systemic lesions of connective tissue, autoimmune thyroiditis, etc.)).

5. Crohn’s disease (BC ) – a chronic recurrent disease of the gastrointestinal tract of unknown etiology, characterized by transmural, segmental, granulomatous inflammation with the development of local and systemic complications. Unlike ulcerative colitis, in Crohn’s disease, all layers of the intestinal wall are involved in the inflammatory process. Inflammation in most cases first occurs in the ileum and then spreads to other parts of the intestine

Damage to the digestive tract in systemic diseases of the connective tissue

Systemic connective tissue diseases (diffuse connective tissue diseases) are a group of diseases characterized by a systemic type of inflammation of various organs and systems, combined with the development of autoimmune and immunocomplex processes, as well as excessive fibrosis.

The group of systemic connective tissue diseases includes the following diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic scleroderma (SJS), diffuse fasciitis, dermatomyositis (polymyositis), idiopathic, Sjogren’s disease (syndrome), mixed connective tissue disease (Sharp’s syndrome), polymyalgia rheumatica, recurrent polychondritis , recurrent panniculitis (Weber-Christian disease). In addition, at present, this group of diseases includes Behcet’s disease, primary antiphospholipid syndrome, and systemic vasculitis.

Systemic diseases of the connective tissue are combined with each other by the main substrate (connective tissue) and a similar pathogenesis, which is based on profound disorders of immune homeostasis, expressed in the development of autoimmune processes, that is, reactions of the immune system, accompanied by the appearance of antibodies or sensitized lymphocytes directed against the antigens of its own body (autoantigens).

Let us dwell in more detail on some of the most significant systemic diseases of the connective tissue.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic progressive polysyndromic disease of predominantly young women and girls (the ratio of sick women and men is 10: 1), which develops against the background of genetically determined imperfection of immunoregulatory mechanisms and leads to uncontrolled synthesis of antibodies to the body’s own tissues with the development of autoimmune and immunocomplex chronic inflammation.

At its core, SLE is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease of connective tissue and blood vessels, characterized by multiple lesions of various localization.In this case, visceral lesions determine the course and prognosis of the disease.

The defeat of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is possible throughout the course of the disease, but rarely comes to the fore in the clinical picture, although various changes in the digestive system are often observed in patients with SLE. In this case, it is necessary to distinguish between symptoms caused directly by lupus lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, from symptoms caused by concomitant diseases or side effects of drugs.Patients are worried about nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite. The defeat of the esophagus is manifested by its dilatation, erosive and ulcerative changes in the mucous membrane. Ulceration of the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum is often found. The defeat of the mesenteric vessels leads to severe abdominal pain, mainly around the navel (abdominal crisis), rigidity of the abdominal muscles.

Below are the structure and brief characteristics of lupus lesions of the gastrointestinal tract:

– The defeat of the mucous membrane of the mouth (and nose) is observed in 7-40% of cases.

– Pharyngitis is common.

– Dysphagia is present in 1–6% of patients; often associated with Raynaud’s phenomenon.

– Anorexia and / or nausea and / or vomiting and / or diarrhea occur in about 1/3 of cases with active SLE.

– The frequency of peptic ulcers is unknown. Obviously, their development is often due to the side effects of drug therapy.

– Ascites is detected in 8-11% of cases. Its presence may be due to nephrotic syndrome, liver cirrhosis or heart failure (there is no pain syndrome, and ascitic fluid is a transudate), as well as peritonitis (in this case, pain occurs, and ascitic fluid is exudate).

– The incidence of pancreatitis is 0.5–8%. Its development is usually associated with disease activity and / or with pancreatic vasculitis. The slight increase in pancreatic enzyme levels seen in SLE patients may occur without pancreatitis (as opposed to lupus pancreatitis, which is characterized by high enzyme levels).

– Abdominal pain syndrome and “acute” abdomen occur in 8–37% of SLE patients.

– Protein-losing enteropathy and malabsorption syndrome are rare.

– Mesenteric vasculitis (MV) and vasculitis of the small intestine (VTC) are classified as life-threatening manifestations of SLE, they are associated with its high activity. Clinical manifestations of CF and VTK are observed in about 2% of patients, and mortality during their development exceeds 50%.

Systemic scleroderma

Systemic scleroderma is a rare connective tissue disorder, the most common manifestation of which is thickening or fibrosis of the skin. The disease is characterized by polymorphism both in relation to the involvement of internal organs, and in the course and severity of clinical manifestations.The nosological specificity of SJS is determined by the processes of enhanced collagen and fibrosis. With SS, there is an overgrowth of fibro-altered connective tissue with its replacement of atrophied smooth muscles of the submucosa and muscular membrane of the esophagus, duodenum, stomach, intestines, with hyperplasia of mucosal epithelial cells and changes in the vessels (cell infiltration, thickening of the vascular wall, up to obliteration lumen of blood vessels). Both forms of SS usually involve gastrointestinal tract damage.Although long-term observations of the progression of anatomical changes in the gastrointestinal tract have not been carried out, it is possible with a certain probability to reproduce the chain of pathological processes that lead to dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract. The first stage is a violation of nervous regulation due to damage to the arterioles of the vasa nervorum, which leads to impaired motility. The second stage is smooth muscle atrophy. And the third is muscle fibrosis.

More than half of the patients have symptoms of damage to the esophagus. The most common complaint of patients is dysphagia, which occurs at the onset of the disease when taking dry and solid food and in a horizontal position.In the future, dysphagia increases and occurs in patients with stage II and III of the disease when taking not only solid, but also semi-liquid food and even water. Frequent symptoms are also a feeling of a coma, a foreign body behind the breastbone. Dysphagia (especially when swallowing solid food) can occur in the absence of other symptoms of esophageal involvement. The next group of complaints is associated with the development of cardiac sphincter insufficiency – regurgitation and belching. Insufficiency of the cardia is accompanied by reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus, which leads to the development of esophagitis.The clinical manifestations of esophagitis are heartburn, chest pain. With long-term and untreated esophagitis, patients may develop a peptic ulcer of the esophagus and subsequently form a peptic stricture. At the same time, the clinical picture changes dramatically: heartburn decreases or even disappears, dysphagia occurs in any position of the patient, when eating any food, is progressive, up to the inability to swallow any food and even water, after eating there are pressing, bursting pains behind the sternum, accompanied by vomiting.Patients lose weight dramatically. The most common complications from the esophagus are reflux esophagitis, peptic ulcers, and esophageal strictures. In addition, reflux esophagitis can cause columnar metaplasia of the esophageal epithelium, but adenocarcinoma is rare. Esophageal manometry and roentgenocymography can reveal a decrease in amplitude or complete absence of peristalsis in the middle and lower thirds of the esophagus. Esophageal motility disorders are observed even in patients with only Raynaud’s syndrome.Dilation and atony of the lower esophagus and reflux esophagitis usually occur in the later stages of the disease.

The defeat of the stomach with SJS is radiographically manifested by its expansion, atony and delayed emptying.

Conducting endoscopic examination in patients with SJS is associated with a number of difficulties, in particular, with limited opening of the mouth, damage to the temporomandibular joints, as well as the risk of damage to the atrophied esophageal wall. Therefore, the main indications for endoscopic examination in patients with SJS are: the presence of complaints indicating lesions of the esophagus and stomach in the absence of X-ray changes that explain them, and pathology of the esophagus and stomach revealed by X-ray examination (ulcers, suspected cancer), requiring further examination with the help of endoscopy.Decreased motility of the small intestine is manifested by flatulence and pain in the umbilical region, sometimes so severe that the patient is diagnosed with mechanical or paralytic intestinal obstruction.

X-ray contrast study reveals the expansion of the descending and horizontal parts of the duodenum and jejunum, smoothing of the circular folds and slowing down the passage of barium suspension. In some patients with SS, cystic pneumatosis of the intestine develops, while on radiographs in the wall of the small intestine, rounded or linear enlightenments are visible.If the cysts rupture, pneumoperitoneum may develop without signs of peritonitis.

Colon lesions can present with chronic constipation, fecal impaction, and even intestinal obstruction. Atony in any part of the intestine can lead to intussusception. X-ray contrast examination of the large intestine sometimes reveals its expansion and atony, diverticula-like protrusions on a broad base are also found (diverticula with an “open mouth”). It should be borne in mind that studies with barium are relatively contraindicated in patients with SJS, in whom intestinal motility is weakened, since there is a risk of developing intestinal obstruction.

A decrease in the tone of the internal sphincter of the anus can lead to fecal incontinence and, occasionally, to rectal prolapse.

Since, along with the intestines, other organs of the digestive system are often involved in the pathological process, the appearance of “gastritic”, “cholecystitis-like”, “pancreatic” complaints and clinical manifestations is possible.

Telangiectasias of the gastric or intestinal mucosa can become a source of gastrointestinal bleeding.

With SS, it is possible to develop a syndrome of impaired absorption, which is manifested by weight loss, diarrhea and anemia. It can be caused by bacterial overgrowth in the atonic intestine or fibrosis and obstruction of the lymphatic vessels.

With an increase in the degree of malabsorption, symptoms of hypovitaminosis or electrolyte disturbances appear.

Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis (synonym Wagner’s disease, Wagner’s disease – Unferricht – Hepp) is a severe progressive systemic disease of connective tissue, skeletal and smooth muscles with impaired motor function, skin lesions in the form of erythema and edema, with changes in the vessels of the microcirculatory bed with damage to internal organs , often complicated by calcification and purulent infection.In 25-30% of patients, skin syndrome is absent. In this case, they speak of polymyositis. Dermatomyositis is considered a rare condition. More often women are ill.

Lesion of the gastrointestinal tract occurs mainly in juvenile dermatomyositis and is manifested by abdominal pain, anorexia, signs of gastroenteritis, gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation. The main cause of gastrointestinal tract damage in dermatomyositis is a widespread vascular lesion with the development of malnutrition of the mucous membrane, nerve conduction and smooth muscle damage.

All patients with dermatomyositis-polymyositis are shown X-ray and endoscopic examination of the esophagus. During electromyographic study, characteristic changes are recorded: spontaneous fibrillation, low-amplitude polyphase potentials of short duration, a series of repeated high-frequency discharges. The detection of such changes makes it possible to distinguish polymyositis from muscle weakness caused by damage to peripheral motor neurons.

A histological examination of a muscle biopsy specimen in polymyositis reveals signs of a necrotizing inflammatory process.Disintegration of connective tissue fibers, swelling of the endothelium and doubling of the basement membrane, necrosis of muscle fibers and inflammatory lymphohistiocytic infiltrates in perimisia and perivascular are observed. There is a thickening of muscle fibers, their loss of cross striation, fragmentation, vacuolar degeneration up to necrosis, phagocytosis of destruction products. Muscle changes are focal in nature, therefore it is necessary to examine a series of slices.

The development of paraneoplastic dermatomyositis-polymyositis in approximately 60% of cases for several months or even 1-3 years precedes the appearance of clinical signs of an oncological process.

Sjogren’s syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is a symptom complex, which is characterized by a combination of signs of damage to some exocrine glands (secreting secretions on the surface of the body or in its cavity – salivary, lacrimal, sweat, vaginal, etc.) with a number of autoimmune diseases (they are characterized by a reaction to the body’s own tissues patient). Shegren was the first to study and describe in detail the symptom complex, which included keratoconjunctivitis dry (an inflammatory disease in which the cornea and conjunctiva of the eye are simultaneously affected), xerostomia (dry mouth due to damage to the salivary glands) and rheumatoid arthritis.Further, other combinations of symptoms were described, for example, damage to the lacrimal, salivary and other glands in combination with systemic diseases of the connective tissue such as scleroderma and systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.

Sjogren’s disease is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by dry mucous membranes due to widespread glandular involvement and involvement of muscles, the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and some other organs. At the same time, in contrast to Sjogren’s syndrome, patients do not have any independent autoimmune diseases.

The digestive organs are affected in about 1/3 of patients. The most pronounced symptoms of damage to the proximal gastrointestinal tract are dysphagia associated with xerostomia, esophageal hypokinesia, and other dyspeptic manifestations. Atrophic changes develop on the part of the mucous membranes of the esophagus, stomach (atrophic gastritis, often with hypo- and achlorhydria), which is manifested by a feeling of heaviness and discomfort in the epigastric region, nausea, belching. The severity of clinical and morphological changes in the esophagus and stomach correlates with the severity of damage to the salivary glands.The pathology of the biliary system is observed in most patients: a feeling of heaviness, pain in the right hypochondrium, bitterness in the mouth, and nausea worries. In 25% of patients, a biopsy reveals chronic antral gastritis and gastritis of the gastric body with symptoms of moderate atrophy and inflammation; in 37%, H. pylori are detected.

The genesis of violations of the tone and peristalsis of the esophagus in Sjogren’s disease can be due to many factors. Along with xerostomia and damage to the glands of the esophagus, an undoubted role is played by the presence of myopathy syndrome in these patients, the morphological basis of which is perivascular infiltration, myositis.Histological examination reveals dystrophic changes in the stratified squamous epithelium lining the esophagus. In the mucous membrane and submucosa, diffuse macrophage infiltration with focal accumulations of lymphoid cells around the glands, with their displacement and replacement, is found.

Described separate cases of esophageal achalasia in combination with a decrease in gastric secretion, named S. Simila (1978) “dry achalasia”. Rarely is the formation of connective tissue membranes in the esophagus similar to Plummer-Vinson syndrome.

Involvement in the pathological process of the stomach in Sjogren’s disease is a manifestation of generalized lesions of the exocrine glands and is characterized by the development of chronic gastritis of an autoimmune nature. When studying the secretory function of the stomach, a decrease in all indicators reflecting gastric secretion is revealed. A decrease in basal and maximum acid production is observed in 80 and 98% of patients, respectively. At the same time, 25% have pentagastrin-resistant achlorhydria.Along with the inhibition of acid production, the peptic activity of gastric juice decreases. The severity of gastric secretory disorders closely correlates with the severity of the lesions of the salivary glands. The development of chronic gastritis in Sjogren’s disease is characterized not only by a decrease in the processes of acid and pepsin formation, but also by a violation of the mucus-forming function of the stomach. An increase in the viscosity of gastric juice, an increase in the concentration of carbohydrate components of glycoproteins of gastric mucus are found. A decrease in the secretion of hydrochloric acid leads to an increase in the concentration of gastrin in the blood serum, the highest content of which is characteristic of patients with Sjogren’s disease with mild and moderate xerostomia.A downward trend in this indicator, as a rule, is observed in patients with severe xerostomia, which may be associated with profound atrophic changes in the mucous membrane of the antrum and damage to G-cells that produce gastrin.

Duodenal hypokinesia (bulbostasis, hypotension) is detected in 30% of patients. In 21% of patients, hypomotor dyskinesia of the small intestine is found, less often – the phenomenon of enteritis.

In 60% of patients, signs of colon lesions develop, most often there is a tendency to constipation.More than half of the patients have grade I dysbiosis.

Morphological examination in biopsy specimens of the mucous membrane of the duodenum, sigmoid colon and rectum reveals changes characteristic of chronic diffuse duodenitis and sigmoiditis of an immune nature (in the subacute course of Sjogren’s disease) and chronic atrophic duodenitis and sigmoiditis (in the chronic course of the disease and in Shegren’s syndrome).

Behcet’s disease

Behcet’s disease (Adamantiad-Behcet disease, silk road disease) is an idiopathic inflammatory disease with frequent involvement of the oral mucosa and other organs, possible systemic manifestations and damage to vessels of any caliber.The histological picture of tissue damage is often represented by perivascular lymphocytic infiltration, vasculitis. Due to the defeat of the vasa vasorum, large vessels of both arterial and venous beds can be involved in the process. Vascular involvement is accompanied by typical hypercoagulation, which is partly due to the activation of endothelial cells and platelets. A tendency to thrombosis is characteristic.

The defeat of the digestive tract is manifested by abdominalgia and diarrhea. The development of intestinal bleeding and intestinal perforation is possible.Most often, the ileocecal part of the intestine is affected, less often the esophagus, transverse and ascending colon are involved. Oral ulcers are usually treated by physicians separately from gastrointestinal lesions. The combination of intestinal lesions with such systemic manifestations as oral ulcers, erythema nodosum, uveitis, arthritis, often requires differential diagnosis of Behcet’s disease with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. Histologically, intestinal ulcers in Behcet’s disease are indistinguishable from those in ulcerative colitis.However, the detection of granulomas characteristic of Crohn’s disease is of great differential diagnostic value. In addition, the patergy test and HLA typing that test positive for Behcet’s disease may provide some help in distinguishing between these diseases.

90,000 Bowel diseases – articles on gastroenterology

Gastroenteritis

A disease of the gastrointestinal tract familiar to almost everyone can be either an independent disease or a symptom of another, more serious pathology.

Enterocolitis

What is enterocolitis? The general name for inflammatory diseases of the small and large intestines. We can say that this is not a diagnosis, but a group of diseases.

Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Severe disease of unknown etiology. This is thought to be an autoimmune problem. So far, only a surgical operation allows you to completely get rid of it.

Intestinal polyps

Polyps on the intestinal walls rarely present as symptoms, but over time they can turn into malignant neoplasms.Therefore, if polyps are found, it is better to get rid of them.

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a rather rare diagnosis, in part because it can be difficult to recognize. The cause of the disease is the malfunctioning of its own immunity, which attacks the gastrointestinal tract, which leads to chronic inflammation. They can talk about the disease: weakness, recurrent, persistent abdominal pain, nausea, fever and mouth ulcers.

Colitis in adults

Pain, rumbling, bloating and a feeling of fullness in the intestines may indicate colitis.It is best not to ignore such symptoms. After all, untreated colitis sometimes causes severe complications, such as ulcers. Fortunately, colitis can be cured if you see your doctor in time and adjust your diet.

Abdominal pain: possible causes

Intestinal problems are a very delicate topic that is not widely discussed.

Traveler’s diarrhea

Diarrhea, or, more simply, diarrhea, awaits us, especially in underdeveloped countries with low levels of hygiene.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition associated with recurrent abdominal pain, stool disorders, and bloating. The disorder can occur spontaneously, with a certain frequency, causing great discomfort. This condition can and should be controlled, treated, and preventive measures taken. Below is detailed information about its causes, symptoms and treatment.

Intestinal obstruction

Intestinal obstruction is a condition in which the movement of food through the intestines is seriously disturbed or completely stopped.

Colon diverticulosis

Colon diverticulosis is a disease in which small, up to one to two centimeters in size, saccular protrusions (diverticula) form in the intestinal wall.

Gas formation: causes and consequences

Increased gas formation is a very delicate problem, which is not customary to talk about even to the closest ones, and they rarely go to a doctor. In this case, flatulence can cause discomfort and accompany serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

When the intestines require attention

Irritability of others can spoil our mood for a long time. But it is much worse when your own intestines are irritated and, instead of well-coordinated work, it gives out pain, stool disturbances and bloating, which overtake at the most unexpected moments.

Preparing for bowel examinations

The better the bowel is cleansed, the more information will be obtained during the exam, and the best cleansing is provided by correctly administered enemas.

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Distended belly: walking in agony

Flatulence is one of those unpleasant symptoms that noticeably spoils life, but it seems like something funny and indecent.

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The non-obvious connection between the brain and the intestine: how it affects health

The human body is amazing. Even the most persistent people with nerves of steel can be outwardly calm, but feel that the stomach is cramped or twisted from stress.This sensation is based on the work of a huge network of neurons located in the intestine.

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It will not work by itself: what to do if the stomach is constantly rebelling

Problems with digestion – abdominal pain, cramps, flatulence, stool disorders – according to statistics, occur in 15% of the population. The figure is impressive, but even more surprising is that two-thirds of patients suffering from functional intestinal disorders do not seek medical help, trying (often unsuccessfully) to cope with difficulties on their own.Therefore, the actual number of people with irritable bowel syndrome is likely to be much higher.

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Remedy for diarrhea

Summer (especially if you are on vacation in hot countries) is rightfully considered the season of sunburn, heatstroke and food poisoning. So a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and diarrhea remedy should be purchased in advance. And it’s better if all of them are modern.

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How much does healthy digestion cost, or the truth about microbes

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that restore, normalize and maintain the composition of the intestinal microflora.The most famous probiotic cultures are bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, they account for up to 90% of the intestinal microflora. A wide range of probiotic-based products are available in pharmacies. But which probiotic should you choose?

Signs of intestinal diverticulitis in adults: pain and constipation

Intestinal diverticulitis: symptoms and treatment in the elderly

Diverticulitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that is most commonly diagnosed in the elderly.

This ailment is often called diverticulosis.

What is the difference between diverticulitis and diverticulosis

Many people think that diverticulitis and diverticulosis are synonymous.

But this is an erroneous opinion. To understand how they differ, you need to know the whole process of the formation of foci of the disease.

With diverticulosis, round protrusions form on the walls of the large intestine, which outwardly resemble hernias. These formations are called diverticula.

Often, the contents of the intestine enter these formations, which provokes the development of an inflammatory stage, called diverticulitis.

In other words, diverticulosis and diverticulitis are one disease, but different stages of its course.

That is, diverticulosis is characterized only by the formation of diverticula, while in intestinal diverticulosis, their inflammation occurs due to infection with enterobacteria, entercocci or clostridia.

Why pathology appears

The disease of diverticulosis cannot be called very common.It affects mainly the elderly.

According to statistics, most of the sick are people over 80 years old.

It is in this age category that over 60% of patients with diverticulosis are found. From 50 to 80 years old, only 10% of people in this age category are affected by the disease.

The main reason for the onset of the disease in old age is age-related changes in the body, as well as improper nutrition.

Aging of the body is always accompanied by the appearance of defects in the intestinal musculature.

The structure of intestinal diverticulum

The appearance of diverticula is provoked by an increase in pressure inside the colon and, consequently, by stretching of its walls.

If the musculature is weakened, that is, it does not perform at least 18 – 20 contractions per minute, then it cannot fully resist the pressure, therefore, neoplasms appear.

Diverticula are formed in different sizes, but as a rule they do not exceed 3 cm.In rare cases, the size of a neoplasm can reach 10 cm.

Doctors say that the main reason for the development of the disease is a large number of bowel bends that are required to move the feces. Small intestine can also cause diverticulosis.

Other reasons:

1. Increased pressure inside the intestine.
2. Sedentary lifestyle.
3. Regular constipation.
4. Excessive body weight.
5. Weakness of the wall of the small intestine.
6. Hereditary predisposition.
7. Presence of helminths.
8. Incorrect power supply.

Regular use of laxatives negatively affects the muscles, provoking its dysfunction, therefore, people who often take medicines of this group are several times more likely to form diverticula in the large or small intestine.

The structure of the intestines in old age

Most often people who suffer from such ailments as:

Symptoms of intestinal diverticulitis

The main symptoms of intestinal diverticulitis:

1. Increase in body temperature.
2. Blood in the feces.
3. Constipation.
4. Diarrhea.
5. Pain in the left lower abdomen.
6. Bloating.
7. Nausea.
8. Vomiting.
9. General weakness.

The pain syndrome in the disease is monotonous. Pain usually lasts 2-3 days.

Painful sensations may increase with exercise, laughing or coughing.

Diagnosis and treatment of intestinal diverticulosis

For the diagnosis and treatment of diverticulitis, it is necessary to visit a gastroenterologist.

The first stage of diagnosis is the collection of anamnesis and examination.

Diagnosis of diverticulitis using ultrasound

Usually, after a palpation examination, the doctor can already diagnose, because the inflamed areas of the intestine are easy enough to feel.

In addition, the patient must undergo such examinations as:

• Colonoscopy.
• X-ray of the intestine.
• Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity.

Diet

The main principle of the diet for this ailment is the consumption of bran.

You also need to eat more vegetables, berries and fruits that do not contain coarse fiber:

1. Apples.
2. Dried apricots.
3. Bananas.
4. Dried dates.
5. Grapefruit.
6. Orange.
7. Dried peaches.
8. Pear.
9. Strawberry.
10. Avocado.
11. Broccoli.
12. Brussels sprouts.
13. Cauliflower.
14. Carrot.
15. Sweet corn.
16. Artichoke.
17. Green beans.
18. Celery.
19. Sweet pepper.
20. Zucchini.

Diet for diverticulosis is a must! If you do not follow the diet prescribed by your doctor, then no medication will help eliminate the disease.

Other permitted foods and dishes:

• Jacket potatoes.
• Brown rice.
• Low-fat hard cheese.
• Low-fat cottage cheese.
• Beetroot.
• Pumpkin.
• Bran bread.
• Vegetable soup.
• Porridge.
• Muesli.
• Flakes.
• Seaweed.

It is highly discouraged to consume turnips, radishes, pineapple and persimmons.

Foods rich in fiber – recommended for intestinal diverticulitis

What to eat and drink is prohibited:

1. White cabbage.
2. Grapes.
3. Carbonated drinks.
4. Milk.
5. Legumes.
6. Nuts.
7. Blueberries.
8. Garnet.
9. Bow.
10. Garlic.
11. Tea.
12. Coffee.
13. Semolina porridge.
14. Pasta.
15. Preservation.
16. Baking.
17. Chocolate.

Every day a person should drink at least 1.5 liters of purified water and completely eliminate foods containing coarse fiber.

It is strictly forbidden to eat fried, spicy, salty foods.

All food should be steamed, boiled or stewed.

Medicines

Treat diverticulosis at an early stage with medication. Most often, therapy is aimed at reducing pain and constipation.

So antispasmodics are prescribed to suppress pain (well-known drugs: Dicetel, Mebeverin).

In rare cases, doctors prescribe laxatives.

But it is worth remembering that drugs are prescribed only those that lower intestinal pressure (known drugs: “Lactulose”, “Mucofalk”).

The main drugs for the treatment of intestinal diverticulitis for adults are motor regulators:

• “Ganaton”.
• Itomed.
• Motillium.
• Motilak.
• Prucaloprid.
• Resolor.
• Linaclotide.
• Mucofalk.
• Exportal.
• Duphalac.
• Prelax.
• Normase.

Also, the treatment regimen necessarily includes:

• Antimicrobial agents.
• Antihistamines.

If a person has diverticulitis, that is, an inflammatory process, then antibiotics are additionally prescribed.

Motilac – for drug treatment of intestinal diverticulitis in old age

With diverticulosis, treatment can be carried out at home.

Hospitalization is required only in cases such as:

1. Intoxication of the body.
2. Increase in body temperature over 39 degrees.
3. Peritoneal irritation.
4. Immunity suppression.
5. Bleeding.
6. Perforation (perforation).
7. Abscess (purulent inflammation).

Important! In no case should you self-medicate. Many people take strong laxatives or enemas without consulting a doctor. This is hazardous to health! The above actions lead to rupture of the neoplasm.

Surgery

Surgery is necessary only when the disease is a threat to the patient’s life.

In rare cases, surgery is planned to prevent re-inflammation.

Indications for surgery:

• Accumulation of pus in the formation.
• Bleeding.
• Peritonitis.
• Fistulas.
• Intestinal obstruction.

It is prohibited to carry out the operation in case of severe diseases of the cardiovascular system, lungs or liver.

Table: types of operations

Conclusion

At the first symptoms of diverticulitis, you should immediately see a doctor.

This disease can have negative consequences for the human body.

If the diverticulum bursts, the person may develop peritonitis (an inflammatory process in the abdominal cavity).

Also, a consequence of this ailment can be the formation of adhesions, which will further provoke intestinal obstruction.

The most unfavorable outcome is the degeneration of the formation into intestinal cancer.

Video: Colon diverticulitis and diverticulosis. An overview of diseases in a video from a doctor and the difference between them