(Credit: New Africa/Shutterstock)
Imagine waking up with a sharp, persistent pain in your abdomen that just won’t go away. For many, this is how diverticulitis makes itself known. While it may seem like an obscure condition, diverticulitis is actually quite common, especially as people age. The pain and discomfort it causes can be severe, disrupting daily life and requiring immediate medical attention in some cases. told by Discover Magazine.
What Is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis affects the colon and occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the walls of the colon. Typically, these pouches are harmless, leading to a condition known as diverticulosis, where there are no noticeable symptoms. However, when these diverticula become inflamed or infected, they trigger diverticulitis, resulting in significant discomfort and health issues.
“What Does Diverticulitis Feel Like?”
The hallmark symptom of diverticulitis is abdominal pain, often concentrated on the lower left side. The pain can be mild, but it often escalates to sudden and severe discomfort. In more serious cases, the pain can persist for days. Along with abdominal pain, people may experience other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea.
While many cases of diverticulitis resolve with proper medical care, complications can arise in more severe situations. These include the development of abscesses, fistulas, blockages, urinary problems, or internal bleeding. Though rare, such complications can be life-threatening and may require urgent medical intervention.
What Causes Diverticulitis?
The exact cause of diverticulitis remains unclear, but several factors are known to increase the risk of developing this condition. Diverticula typically form in weak spots of the colon due to increased pressure from spasms or straining during bowel movements. Once formed, these pouches can become inflamed or infected, resulting in diverticulitis.
Is Diverticulitis Hereditary?
While lifestyle and dietary habits play a major role in the development of diverticulitis, there is mounting evidence that genetics are also significant. Some studies suggest that up to 40–50% of diverticulitis cases may have a genetic component. Twin studies further support the role of heredity in the condition. Still, more research is needed to fully understand the genetic factors at play. report from Mayo Clinic.
Other Risk Factors for Diverticulitis
Age is one of the most prominent risk factors, as the elasticity of the colon decreases over time. In the U.S., more than 50% of people over 60 and over 60% of those over 80 have diverticula in their colons. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, a low-fiber diet, excessive red meat intake, low vitamin D levels, and a lack of exercise. Some medications, particularly Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), can also contribute to the development of diverticulitis.
Managing risk factors through lifestyle changes, such as increasing fiber intake, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight, may help reduce the likelihood of diverticulitis. Understanding the condition and its triggers is essential for those looking to prevent or manage its symptoms effectively.
