Diverticulitis is a condition where small, bulging pouches, called diverticula, develop in the lining of the colon and become inflamed or infected. These pouches can form in weak spots of the intestinal wall, similar to how a bicycle tire might bulge in weak areas. When these diverticula cause symptoms, it’s a flare-up. Exercising during this time requires careful consideration and medical guidance.
Understanding a Diverticulitis Flare-Up
A diverticulitis flare-up presents with several common symptoms. The most frequent is sudden abdominal pain or tenderness, often in the lower left side of the abdomen, though it can occur elsewhere.
Abdominal discomfort may be constant or intermittent and can worsen with movement or pressure. Individuals might also experience a low-grade fever, nausea, and vomiting. Changes in bowel habits are common, including diarrhea or constipation.
Loss of appetite and urinary issues like urgency or discomfort from bladder irritation may also occur. A healthcare provider’s diagnosis is the most reliable way to confirm a diverticulitis flare-up, as its symptoms can resemble other digestive or non-digestive conditions.
Exercise During a Flare-Up
During a diverticulitis flare-up, rest is recommended to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Strenuous exercise is discouraged because it can increase abdominal pressure and worsen inflammation or symptoms. Activities that involve heavy lifting, high-impact movements like running or jumping, and intense core exercises should be avoided.
These types of physical exertion can put undue strain on the inflamed colon. While complete bed rest is not always necessary for mild cases, limiting physical activity allows the digestive tract to recover. Even mild discomfort during exercise indicates a need to stop and rest.
For individuals experiencing mild symptoms and with a doctor’s approval, gentle activities might be considered. Short, slow walks or mild stretching can be beneficial, helping to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation. However, it is important to proceed with caution, listen to your body’s signals, and cease any activity that causes increased pain or discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Recognizing when to seek medical attention during a diverticulitis flare-up is important. Certain symptoms indicate a need for immediate medical consultation, rather than self-treatment or physical activity. These warning signs suggest the condition may be worsening or that complications are developing.
Prompt medical care is needed if you experience severe, sudden, or worsening abdominal pain that does not subside. A persistent high fever, above 100.4°F (38°C), accompanied by chills, is another sign of a more serious infection. Ongoing nausea and vomiting that prevents you from keeping down liquids, or severe tenderness in the abdomen, also warrant immediate medical evaluation.
Other concerning symptoms include rectal bleeding or an inability to pass gas or stool, which could suggest a bowel obstruction. Consulting a healthcare provider is necessary before making any decisions about physical activity during a flare-up to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Resuming Activity After a Flare-Up
Once a diverticulitis flare-up has subsided, gradually reintroducing physical activity is recommended. Beginning slowly with low-impact activities allows the body to adapt and minimizes stress on the healing colon. This phased approach helps to prevent a recurrence of symptoms or complications.
Activities such as walking, light jogging, yoga, or swimming are good starting points, as they are gentle on the abdomen and joints. Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of workouts over several weeks or months is advisable. For instance, start with short walks and slowly extend the distance and pace as comfort allows.
Before resuming any regular exercise routine, particularly if it involves more strenuous activities like weightlifting or intense core work, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on the severity of the flare-up and your individual recovery progress, ensuring a safe return to physical activity.