What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?

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Symptoms of Diverticulitis: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction to Diverticulitis Symptoms

Diverticulitis is a gastrointestinal condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of diverticula, which are small pouches that can form in the colon. This condition predominantly affects older adults and is more common in Western societies due to dietary and lifestyle factors . Understanding the symptoms of diverticulitis is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.

Abdominal Pain: The Primary Symptom

The most common and prominent symptom of diverticulitis is abdominal pain. This pain typically has an acute or subacute onset and is usually localized to the left lower quadrant of the abdomen. The pain is often constant and can be exacerbated by movement . In Asian populations, the pain may be more commonly right-sided due to the anatomical differences in the colon.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, Diarrhea, and Constipation

Patients with diverticulitis frequently experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Nausea is common, although vomiting is less frequently reported . Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea and constipation, are also typical symptoms .

Fever and Elevated Inflammatory Markers

Low-grade fever is a common symptom of diverticulitis, indicating the presence of inflammation or infection. Patients often present with elevated leukocyte counts and increased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which are markers of inflammation .

Urinary Symptoms and Complications

Due to the proximity of the inflamed colon to the bladder, some patients may experience urinary symptoms such as dysuria (painful urination). In severe cases, complications like colovesical fistula (an abnormal connection between the colon and bladder) can occur, leading to symptoms such as fecaluria (presence of feces in urine) and pneumaturia (passage of gas in urine) .

Less Common Symptoms: Anorexia and Abdominal Distention

Other less common symptoms include anorexia (loss of appetite) and abdominal distention. These symptoms can be indicative of more severe or complicated cases of diverticulitis, such as those involving abscess formation or bowel obstruction .

Conclusion

Diverticulitis presents with a range of symptoms, the most common being left lower quadrant abdominal pain, gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation, and systemic signs such as fever and elevated inflammatory markers. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for the timely diagnosis and management of the condition, which can range from conservative treatment to surgical intervention in complicated cases. Understanding the full spectrum of symptoms can aid in better patient outcomes and management strategies.