Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches, known as diverticula, form in the lining of the large intestine and become inflamed or infected. Abdominal pain is a primary symptom, often prompting individuals to seek medical attention. While an acute episode typically resolves within a few days to a week with appropriate treatment, pain can sometimes linger for weeks. Several factors can contribute to this prolonged or recurring discomfort.
Understanding Diverticulitis Pain
Diverticulitis pain commonly manifests in the lower left side of the abdomen, though it can occur in other areas. The onset can be sudden and severe, or it may develop gradually over several days. Individuals often describe the sensation as a constant ache or tenderness, which can worsen with movement or pressure. Other symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits like constipation or diarrhea.
For an uncomplicated acute attack, inflammation and associated pain subside within a few days once treatment, often involving antibiotics and dietary modifications, is initiated. Most individuals experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a week. This typical course involves the resolution of infection and inflammation, allowing the bowel to recover.
Why Pain May Persist
While many diverticulitis episodes resolve quickly, pain or discomfort can sometimes extend for weeks due to several underlying reasons. One significant factor is the development of complications that prevent inflammation from fully resolving. These might include an abscess (a pocket of pus), a fistula (an abnormal connection between the colon and another organ), a stricture (narrowing of the bowel), or a perforation (a tear in the colon wall). Such complications lead to persistent pain and require more intensive medical intervention.
Another reason for prolonged discomfort is smoldering inflammation, where the inflammatory process does not completely clear up after an acute attack. This low-grade, persistent inflammation can cause ongoing abdominal pain and tenderness, even without a full-blown infection. Individuals might experience this as a chronic ache that fluctuates in intensity.
Some individuals may also develop post-diverticulitis irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-like symptoms). Even after infection and inflammation have entirely cleared, the colon might become hypersensitive, leading to persistent abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. These symptoms mimic irritable bowel syndrome, reflecting a functional change in how the bowel operates rather than ongoing inflammation or infection. Other co-existing gastrointestinal conditions might also contribute to persistent abdominal discomfort following a diverticulitis episode.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Recognizing when persistent pain warrants immediate medical evaluation is important for individuals recovering from diverticulitis. Contact a healthcare provider if abdominal pain becomes severe or noticeably worsens. A high fever or chills alongside abdominal discomfort also indicates a potential complication requiring urgent attention. Persistent nausea or vomiting that prevents the intake of liquids or solids is another concerning symptom.
Any instance of rectal bleeding should prompt immediate medical consultation. New or concerning symptoms arising during or after an attack, such as significant changes in bowel habits or unusual swelling, also necessitate evaluation. Professional medical advice is always necessary to accurately assess the situation and guide appropriate treatment.
Preventing Recurrence
Implementing certain lifestyle strategies can help reduce the likelihood of future diverticulitis attacks, which in turn helps prevent prolonged pain episodes. Consuming a diet rich in fiber, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, supports regular bowel movements and can lower the risk of diverticula formation and inflammation. Adequate hydration is also beneficial, as it helps keep stools soft and promotes smooth passage through the digestive tract.
Engaging in regular physical activity helps maintain overall digestive health and can contribute to preventing diverticulitis. Maintaining a healthy body weight is another protective measure, as obesity has been linked to an increased risk of developing the condition. Avoiding smoking is also advised due to its potential negative impact on overall health, including gut health. Following a doctor’s specific advice regarding diet and lifestyle adjustments after an attack is an important part of long-term management.