Diverticulosis

Sometimes small pouches bulge outward through weak spots in the colon. This is called diverticulosis. The pockets (called diverticula) can fill with intestinal waste. With diverticulitis, these pockets and areas around them get inflamed or infected.

Rectal Problems

Signs & Symptoms

For Diverticulosis

Crohn's Disease

Often this has no symptoms. Some persons may have:

• Mild cramps.

• Bloating

• Constipation.

• Blood in the stool.

Colon and Rectal Cancers

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Diverticulosis in Colon

Diarrhea

SEE ALL ABDOMINAL & URINARY ARTICLES

For Diverticulitis

• Severe cramping and bloating in the abdomen, usually on the lower left side. The pain is made worse with a bowel movement.

• Tenderness over the abdomen.

• Nausea.

• Fever.

Causes

A low fiber diet is thought to be the main cause. Constipation and overuse of laxatives may also play a role.

Treatment

Diverticulitis needs medical treatment. Diverticulosis can’t be cured, but self-care measures can reduce symptoms and prevent serious problems.

Questions to Ask

Question 1

Do you have any of these problems?

• Very severe abdominal pain.

• Signs of an intestinal obstruction: Inability to pass stool or even gas; mild fever and weakness; abdominal cramps that come and go; the abdomen gets more and more swollen with increasing pain; hiccups that don’t stop; and vomiting.

• Blood in the stool, tarlike, or maroon-colored stool.

Get medical care without delay. If symptoms are life threatening go to the ER or call 9-1-1. Don’t call 9-1-1 or use the ER if symptoms do not threaten life. Ask your doctor ahead of time where you should go for a problem that needs prompt care, but not emergency care.

Question 2

Do you have any of these problems?

• Changes in bowel habits last longer than 2 weeks.

• Tenderness, pain, mild cramping, or a bloated feeling. These are usually felt in the lower left side of the abdomen.

• Gas. Nausea. Constipation.

• Pain in the abdomen and a fever.

You should be seen by your doctor for medical advice. Contact your doctor or health care provider to find out how soon you should be seen.

Use Self-Care / Prevention:

You can probably take care of the problem yourself if you answered NO to all the questions. Use the “Self-Care” measures that are listed. Call your doctor if you don’t feel better soon, though. You may have some other problem.

Self-Care / Prevention

• Get regular exercise. Drink 1-1/2 to 2 quarts of water daily. Eat a diet high in fiber, but avoid foods that bother you (e.g., corn, nuts, etc.).

• Avoid the regular use of “stimulant” laxatives, such as Ex-Lax. Ask your doctor about taking bulk-forming laxatives like Metamucil.

• Try not to strain when you have bowel movements.

This website is not meant to substitute for expert medical advice or treatment. Follow your doctor’s or health care provider’s advice if it differs from what is given in this guide.

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