Diverticulitis is a digestive condition that involves small, bulging pouches, called diverticula, forming in the lining of the large intestine. When one or more of these pouches become inflamed or infected, the condition is known as diverticulitis. While many people have these pouches without issue, an inflammatory episode can lead to a range of symptoms, including notable changes in bowel movements. Understanding how diverticulitis can affect the appearance of stool is important for recognizing potential flare-ups.
Key Stool Characteristics
Blood in stool is a key indicator. Bright red blood may appear on toilet paper or in the bowl, often from ruptured blood vessels in inflamed diverticula. Dark red or maroon stools indicate bleeding from higher in the colon. Black, tarry stools (melena) suggest bleeding from further up the digestive tract, though this is less common. Blood indicates intestinal lining damage from inflammation.
The consistency of stool varies significantly. Diarrhea, with loose, watery stools, is common during acute flare-ups. Conversely, constipation (hard, pellet-like stools) can occur, chronically or during mild inflammation. These changes link to inflammation affecting bowel function. Severe cases may involve narrowing of the large intestine due to inflammation or scarring, resulting in thin or pencil-shaped stools.
Mucus in stool can be observed during diverticulitis. It may appear as clear, white, or yellowish streaks mixed with stool or floating in the toilet. Increased mucus production is the intestinal lining’s response to irritation, inflammation, or infection. While a small amount of clear mucus is normal, excessive or discolored mucus indicates digestive distress from inflamed pouches.
Other Accompanying Symptoms
Beyond stool changes, other symptoms often accompany diverticulitis. Abdominal pain is prominent, typically in the lower left abdomen, where diverticula commonly form. Pain can be sudden and intense, sharp or burning, or gradually worsen over days. Discomfort can be persistent, sometimes improving after a bowel movement or passing gas.
Fever and chills often accompany diverticulitis, indicating infection or significant inflammation. A high temperature (above 100.4°F / 38°C) is a common sign of the body’s immune response. Nausea and vomiting can also occur, reflecting digestive distress or a severe inflammatory process.
Bloating and increased gas are common during a diverticulitis flare. These contribute to abdominal discomfort, related to altered bowel function and colon inflammation. Severity varies, but they indicate an active diverticulitis episode.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Recognizing when to seek medical attention for diverticulitis symptoms is important. Prompt evaluation is necessary for severe or worsening abdominal pain, especially if sudden, intense, or persistent. Any blood in stool (bright red, dark, or tarry) warrants immediate medical consultation. Large amounts of rectal bleeding are concerning and require urgent attention.
A high fever (above 100.4°F / 38°C) that does not subside is a warning sign, often indicating infection. Persistent nausea and vomiting, especially if unable to keep fluids down, can lead to dehydration and require medical intervention. Other red flags include signs of shock (dizziness or weakness), suggesting significant bleeding or a severe complication.
Self-diagnosis of diverticulitis or its complications is insufficient; professional medical evaluation is necessary for accurate assessment and treatment. Symptoms can overlap with other gastrointestinal conditions, making proper diagnosis important for effective care. Seeking timely medical advice helps prevent more serious complications.