The medical condition known as diverticulitis is characterized by inflamed small pouches (called diverticula) that can develop along the walls of the colon or the lower end of the large intestine. If you work or live in the greater Houston, TX vicinity and experience sudden abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting – symptoms of diverticulitis, contact the team of medical professionals at Houston Digestive Diseases Consultants today.

What is Diverticulitis?

Diverticula pouches – the beginning of diverticulosis often develops in those areas of the colon that bulge outward due to weakness in the colon walls. Most individuals with diverticulosis are asymptomatic – with the condition often discovered during a routine colonoscopy.

Diverticulitis happens when one or several diverticula pouches become infected or inflamed.

What Causes Diverticulitis?

The specific cause of diverticulitis is not fully understood by the medical community; however, many believe several factors – like a diet that lacks sufficient fiber, may combine to contribute to its development.

Diverticulitis Symptoms

When diverticula become inflamed or infected, the potential symptoms include –

• Abdominal pain, often concentrated on the lower left side.  
• Chills & Fever. 
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Bowel habit changes (i.e., the onset of diarrhea or constipation).

Potential Complications of Diverticulitis

Severe cases of the digestive condition known as diverticulitis can lead to complications such as –

• The formation of abscesses.
• Pockets of pus within inflamed diverticula pouches.
• Perforation of the colon wall.
• Inflammation can cause the diverticula to rupture, which may cause a serious condition known as peritonitis - inflammation of the abdominal lining.
• Scarring from repeated episodes may cause a narrowing or colon blockage. 

Diagnosing & Treating Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is usually diagnosed through a comprehensive exam that includes imaging studies. Treatment options for this digestive ailment will depend on the severity of the condition. Mild instances of diverticulitis can be treated with -

• Rest
• Dietary modifications
• Antibiotics, and more

More serious diverticulitis cases, especially those that present with complications, may require hospitalization, IV antibiotics, and possible surgery to remove the part of the colon affected. 

Proactively Preventing Diverticulitis

To reduce one’s risk of diverticulitis, consider these suggestions healthy lifestyle suggestions –

• Eat a high-fiber diet – reduces the risk of diverticula formation.
• Staying hydrated,
• Regular exercise.

Call for a Diverticulitis Consultation Today

If you experience diverticulitis symptoms - a fever, stomach pain, or a change in bowel habits – contact one of our digestive medical specialists at Houston Digestive Diseases Consultants – with three convenient Houston, TX locations. Call for more information at one of our three locations at (713) 777-2555 for the office in Memorial Hermann Southwest, (713) 796-8627 for the office in Smith Tower, and (713) 880-8707 for the office in Memorial Hermann Greater Heights. Prompt diagnosis as well as the applied appropriate treatment plan that helps to prevent future complications and improve outcomes.