Spotting the Warning Signs of Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when diverticula — small pockets that can form inside the large intestine — become inflamed. Diverticula commonly form as part of the aging process and typically don’t cause problems. However, if one or more diverticula swell up, it can cause severe digestive issues.

At his practice in Los Angeles and Glendale, California, board-certified colon and rectal surgeon Robert G. Yavrouian, MD, provides high-quality diverticulitis care. Here, we highlight common warning signs of diverticulitis, so you can act quickly if they arise.

Understanding the types of diverticulitis

Diverticulitis can be categorized in several ways:

Acute diverticulitis

Acute diverticulitis is the most common type. It develops suddenly, but improves with treatment, preventing lasting intestinal damage.

Chronic diverticulitis

Sometimes, acute diverticulitis becomes chronic, resulting in long-term intestinal inflammation. Experts don’t know why this happens, but chronic colon conditions may contribute.

Uncomplicated diverticulitis

Most cases of diverticulitis are uncomplicated. They may cause inflammation, and sometimes infection, but symptoms typically improve with treatment.

Complicated diverticulitis

Diverticulitis becomes complicated when it causes more severe side effects. For example, the intestinal pockets may become so swollen they rupture, or chronic inflammation can cause intestinal scarring.

3 warning signs of diverticulitis

Diverticulitis doesn’t always present symptoms, but certain telltale signs can help clue you in, including:

1. Abdominal pain

Everyone experiences abdominal pain occasionally, which can be caused by a stomach bug or food poisoning. However, the pain caused by these factors is typically mild and improves with over-the-counter (OTC) medication and rest. 

The abdominal pain caused by diverticulitis, on the other hand, is often severe and occurs rapidly with no warning. Although everyone’s symptoms vary, the pain tends to affect the lower left side of the abdomen and is sharp and stabbing, rather than dull and achy.

2. Changes in bowel habits

Everyone has different bowel habits. Some people have several bowel movements daily, while others only have one every few days. Regardless, any significant changes may indicate diverticulitis.

For example, if your bowel movements are typically fluffy and easy to pass, but you suddenly become constipated and have to strain, it could be a sign of diverticulitis. Similarly, if you start having diarrhea all of a sudden, identifying the underlying cause is important. This is especially true if your diet is consistent and you aren’t taking any new medications that might cause the change.

3. Bloating and gas

Many people with diverticulitis report increased gas and bloating during flare-ups. While these symptoms can occur after eating fibrous foods or drinking carbonated beverages, if diverticulitis is the cause, you might experience them between meals or at night when you haven’t eaten anything. 

Another helpful indication is the location of the gas pains. It’s likely diverticulitis if they occur in the lower left side of your abdomen.

Don’t wait to schedule a diverticulitis screening

Diverticulitis is relatively rare, but it can quickly worsen without treatment.  If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait to schedule a screening consultation. Contact Robert G. Yavrouian, MD, by calling the nearest office or booking an appointment online today.