Diverticulitis: Causes, Recognizable Signs, and Treatment Strategies

Diverticula are tiny pouches that form along the lining of the large intestine, while diverticulitis describes the inflammation or infection of these sacs. Although most common in the colon, diverticulitis can develop anywhere within the digestive tract. The precise cause remains uncertain, but factors like insufficient dietary fiber, chronic constipation, aging, and obesity are believed to contribute. Symptoms often include sudden, intense pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by nausea, diarrhea, bloating, rectal bleeding, fever, and chills. Diagnosis involves blood tests and imaging scans such as CT scans. Treatment may involve dietary adjustments, antibiotics, or surgery in severe cases. Lifestyle changes like a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, and hydration are crucial for prevention.