Service
Diverticular disease
- Section
- Services
- Specialist
- Op. Dr. Dilara Hasanova
- Clinic
- Modern Hospital, Baku
What is diverticular disease?
Short answer
Diverticula are small pouches that form in the wall of the colon. Having them is called diverticulosis and often causes no symptoms. When diverticula become inflamed, diverticulitis develops. Diverticulitis usually shows up as pain in the lower left part of the abdomen, fever and a change in bowel habits.
Symptoms
- Persistent pain in the lower left part of the abdomen
- Fever, nausea
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Bloating, abdominal pain when touched
- Sometimes bleeding from a diverticulum
Diagnosis
- Blood tests (markers of inflammation)
- Computed tomography (CT) during the acute phase
- Colonoscopy after the acute phase has passed, when indicated (to rule out other diseases)
Treatment
General information
- For uncomplicated diverticulitis, diet and medication as decided by the doctor. Antibiotics are not always needed.
- For complications such as an abscess or perforation, treatment in the hospital and, in some cases, surgical intervention
- In recurrent, severe cases, planned surgical treatment may be discussed
Urgent: severe abdominal pain, high fever, vomiting or heavy bleeding from the bowel require emergency medical care (103).
Note: this page is educational in nature. If diverticulitis is suspected, Dr. Hasanova refers the patient for the necessary examinations and to specialists.