Diverticulosis is a condition of the colon. Most patients with Diverticulosis present no symptoms. However, as small pouches called diverticula begin to create pressure in the colon, they can become inflamed and a condition called Diverticulitis can develop.
Diverticulitis will cause symptoms such as:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fever
- Tenderness
- A change in the shape of the stool
- Lower GI bleeding/rectal bleeding (uncommon but very serious)
A patient with Diverticulosis may never develop Diverticulitis, but should Diverticulitis be developed, you need to call Dr. Hathaway’s office immediately.
Usually a modified diet will solve the problem of Diverticulitis, but it may occasionally be so severe that it requires hospitalization or emergency surgery due to an obstruction.