It is the inflammation of small dilatations in the wall of the large intestine called diverticula. It is frequent in elderly people.
Constipation and hard stools force the wall of the intestine to strengthen to evacuate them and this causes the formation of diverticula. When the diverticula fill with stool, become infected and inflamed, diverticulitis develops.
Symptoms include pain in the lower abdomen and fever. Other associated symptoms: constipation or diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, chills and rectal bleeding.
Diagnosis is clinical by questioning and physical examination. It is confirmed with imaging tests such as radiography, ultrasound and/or computed tomography.
Treatment is analgesia, bowel rest and antibiotics. If it is complicated by intestinal perforation, urgent surgery may be required.
Warning signs: severe acute abdominal pain, bleeding in the stool, persistent fever.
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