What Are Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis?
What Are Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis?Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are two diseases that occur in the large intestine (colon). They both involve diverticula — small, bulging pouches forming in the colon’s lining. (Diverticulosis can also occur throughout the GI tract but is most often seen in the colon.) These pouches can be harmless but can also become inflamed or infected or cause additional problems, including bleeding and blockages.
What is the difference between diverticulosis and diverticulitis?
The presence of diverticula is called diverticulosis. This condition is called diverticulitis if one or more diverticula become inflamed or infected. Diverticulitis is a more serious concern than diverticulosis alone.
Stages of Diverticulitis
Stages of DiverticulitisDiverticulitis can be divided into four stages based on the severity of the condition:
- Stage I: Abscesses (collections of pus) form in the fat surrounding the colon or folds of the small intestine.
- Stage II: Abscesses have become “walled off” by inflammatory tissue outside of the peritoneum (a membrane that lines the inside of your abdomen and pelvis) or inside the abdomen.
- Stage III: Abscesses have burst, and pus has been discharged into the abdomen.
- Stage IV: Abscesses have burst into the peritoneal cavity (a fluid-filled area that houses many of the abdominal organs), resulting in the presence of feces and, subsequently, infection.
Signs & Symptoms of Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
SymptomsMild cases of diverticulosis usually do not cause symptoms. However, some patients report the following diverticulosis signs and symptoms:
- Mild pain, cramps, or tenderness in the abdominal area
- Swelling or bloating
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
Diverticulitis symptoms can include all of the above and are more common with this condition than with diverticulosis.
Diverticulitis can also cause:
- Severe pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Rectal bleeding (a very rare symptom)
- Changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation)
The doctors at NewYork-Presbyterian can help diagnose diverticulosis and diverticulitis symptoms and ensure you receive proper treatment for the condition.
What Causes Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis?
CausesDiverticulosis is common among older adults, but scientists aren’t sure what exactly causes diverticula to appear. They may appear on areas of the colon that were naturally weak, which then give way to pressure.
Researchers have also noted that constipation can put pressure on the colon and may lead to the formation of diverticula. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula — small, bulging pouches that form on the inner intestine wall — become inflamed or infected.
Risk Factors
Risk FactorsSeveral factors may increase your risk of developing diverticula and diverticulitis.
These include:
- Being over the age of 40
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Low-fiber diet
- Lack of exercise
- Taking certain medications including steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen.
Complications
ComplicationsSome people with acute diverticulitis may develop complications. These can range from mild to severe and may require immediate medical attention.
Complications can include:
- Bleeding (uncommon)
- A blockage in the bowel
- A tear in the colon (perforation)
- Peritonitis, which can occur if a diverticula rupture and spills its contents into the abdominal cavity, causing infection
- An abnormal connection between parts of the bowel (fistula)
Prevention
PreventionWhile it is not always possible to avoid diverticulosis or diverticulitis, you can take a few steps to lower your risk of developing the conditions. Eating a healthy diet with enough fiber, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help keep your risk of diverticulosis and diverticulitis low.
Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis Care
The expert physicians at NewYork-Presbyterian have years of experience identifying the symptoms of diverticulosis and diverticulitis, as well as other digestive and kidney diseases. Our doctors can help you manage risk factors and ensure you receive a prompt diagnosis if you present with any symptoms associated with colorectal diseases.