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Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis (cont.)

Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis Symptoms

Most people with diverticulosis have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are usually mild and include the following:

  • pain in the belly (abdomen),

  • bloating,

  • constipation (less often, diarrhea), and

  • cramping.

These symptoms are nonspecific. This means that they are symptoms of many different digestive disorders. They do not necessarily mean that a person has diverticulosis. If an individual has these symptoms, he or she should see a health care practitioner.

Diverticulitis is a more serious condition and causes symptoms in most people with the condition that include:

  • pain in the abdomen, usually in the lower left side;

  • bleeding, bright red or maroon blood may appear in the toilet, on toilet paper, or in the stool. Bleeding is often mild and usually stops by itself; however, it can become severe;

  • fever;

  • nausea;

  • vomiting;

  • chills; and

  • constipation (less often, diarrhea).

If diverticulitis is not treated promptly it can develop some very serious complications. A complication is suggested by any of the following symptoms:

  • worsening abdominal pain;

  • persistent fever;

  • vomiting (no food or liquid can be tolerated);

  • constipation for an extended period of time;

  • burning or pain during urination; and

  • bleeding from the rectum.



Next: When to Seek Medical Care »

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Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) - Symptoms at Onset of Disease

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

The symptoms of diverticulitis (diverticulosis) can vary greatly from patient to patient. What were your symptoms at the onset of your disease?

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Diverticulitis »

Diverticula are small mucosal herniations protruding through the intestinal layers and the smooth muscle along the natural openings created by the vasa recta or nutrient vessels in the wall of the colon.

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