What Is Diverticulitis and How Is It Treated Surgically?

What is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition that affects the colon, which is part of your large intestine. It happens when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the wall of the colon and become inflamed or infected. These pouches are common, especially as people get older. However, when they get swollen or infected, it can cause pain and other problems. Many people have diverticula without any symptoms, but diverticulitis means these pouches are causing trouble.

Symptoms of Diverticulitis

Symptoms of diverticulitis can vary from mild to severe. Often, symptoms appear suddenly. For example, you may notice:

Pain in the lower left side of the belly

Fever or chills

Nausea or vomiting

Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea

Bloating or feeling full

Loss of appetite

Sometimes, the pain can be mild at first but get worse over time. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor.

Causes and Risk Factors

Diverticulitis develops when the small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected. Several factors can increase your risk, such as:

Getting older (risk increases with age)

Eating a low-fiber diet

Lack of physical activity

Being overweight

Smoking

Taking certain medicines, like steroids or painkillers

Although not everyone with these risk factors will get diverticulitis, making healthy choices can help lower your risk.

How Diverticulitis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose diverticulitis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may perform a physical exam to check for belly pain. In addition, doctors often use tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as:

Blood tests to look for infection

CT scan (a special X-ray) to see the colon

Urine tests to rule out other problems

Sometimes, other tests like a colonoscopy are done later, but not during an active infection. Early diagnosis helps guide the best treatment.

Surgical Treatment Options for Diverticulitis

Most people with diverticulitis get better with rest, a special diet, and medicine. However, surgery may be needed if:

There are repeated attacks

The infection is severe or does not improve

There are complications, such as a hole in the colon or an abscess

There are two main types of surgery for diverticulitis:

Primary bowel resection: The surgeon removes the part of the colon with the problem and joins the healthy ends. This is often done using minimally invasive surgery, which means smaller cuts and faster recovery.

Bowel resection with colostomy: If the infection is very bad, the surgeon may need to create an opening in the belly (colostomy) to let waste leave the body. Later, another surgery may reconnect the colon.

Minimally invasive surgery for diverticulitis is becoming more common. It often means less pain and a quicker return to normal activities. If you are looking for colon surgery for diverticulitis in your area, talk to a local specialist about your options.

Recovery and Aftercare

After surgery, recovery time depends on the type of procedure and your overall health. Usually, you will stay in the hospital for a few days. During this time, doctors watch for signs of infection or other problems. Once home, you should:

Follow your doctor’s instructions about eating and activity

Take any prescribed medicines

Keep the surgery area clean and dry

Watch for signs of infection, such as fever or redness

Most people can return to normal activities within a few weeks. However, everyone heals at a different pace. For more details on diverticulitis surgery recovery, ask your healthcare team.

Prevention Tips

While you cannot always prevent diverticulitis, some steps may help lower your risk:

Eat a high-fiber diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Drink plenty of water

Exercise regularly

Maintain a healthy weight

Avoid smoking

Making these changes can support colon health and may help prevent future problems.

When to Seek Help

If you have belly pain, fever, or changes in your bowel habits, do not wait. Early treatment can prevent serious problems. For personalized advice on diverticulitis treatment, consult a specialist at Starting New Hospital .