In contrast to diverticulosis, diverticulitis causes symptoms that are often very uncomfortable. Characteristic are dull and non-colicky pains, which usually sit in the left lower abdomen. Less often, the pain also occurs in the right half of the abdomen. Other diverticulitis symptoms are mainly fever and indigestion. Find out more about the signs of diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis: Symptoms in the left lower abdomen are typical
In most cases, diverticulitis causes symptoms in the left lower abdomen, as the descending lower part of the large intestine is particularly frequently affected; this is in the left half of the abdomen. Theoretically diverticula are possible throughout the intestine, but the descending area (descending colon) and its S-shaped mouth into the rectum (sigmoid colon) are predestined for diverticulitis since they belong to the last areas of the digestive tract. Not only the gut diameter is narrower here than in other areas; The stool is deprived of more and more fluid in the course of its passage through the large intestine, so that it can already be very dry and hard in the descending colon – this favors diverticulosis and diverticulitis. Basically, symptoms can occur in the entire abdominal area, but only in 1.5 percent of the cases are on the right side.
Doctors sometimes call diverticulitis “Left side appendicitis“Or” appendicitis of the elderly, “because it causes similar symptoms as appendicitis (Appendicitis) – only on the left instead of the right side. In some cases of diverticulitis, the inflamed intestinal area is palpable as a thickened roller in the left lower abdomen, which hurts when touched. Many sufferers describe the pain as dull and oppressive or feel their stool urgency as very unpleasant and painful (Tenesmus).
In acute diverticulitis may also be in the context of inflammation Fever and fatigue occur. In a blood test, the doctor can also detect increased inflammatory parameters in the blood – such as the C-reactive protein (CRP), an increased number of white blood cells (leukocytes) and an accelerated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
Diverticulitis symptoms during digestion and bowel movements
Not always, but very often occur in a diverticulitis symptoms in the digestive system and a disturbed general condition. The victims complain about:
- constipation
- diarrhea
- bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blood in the stool
Especially in older people, the diverticula can be injured and bleed, for example, by sharp and hard food components in the intestine. Blood deposits on the stool are therefore also possible diverticulitis symptoms. However, blood in the stool can also indicate other diseases (for example intestinal polyps). In any case, it is advisable to consult a doctor for such complaints.
In chronic diverticulitis, the constant inflammation can narrow the intestine in certain places (intestinal stenosis), so that the stool can pass through the corresponding places less well. When this happens, constipation, flatulence, and other digestive symptoms usually become more severe. Diverticulitis and intestinal stenosis can in the worst case lead to complete intestinal obstruction (ileus). This is a medical emergency in which doctors must quickly intervene with surgery.
Not all symptoms must always be diverticulitis-typical. It can also happen, for example, that the inflammation spreads to the bladder; then there is often increased urination and / or urinary problems. Especially if in parallel others Diverticulitis symptoms In any case, you should take this seriously and consult a doctor.