Diverticulitis is a common digestive condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of small pouches, known as diverticula, that can form in the lining of the large intestine. While many cases are mild and treatable at home, understanding when symptoms indicate a medical emergency is important for timely and appropriate care.
Recognizing Diverticulitis Symptoms
Diverticulitis often presents with a range of symptoms, most commonly involving persistent abdominal pain. This pain is frequently located in the lower left side of the abdomen, though some individuals might experience it on the right side or in the middle. The discomfort can vary in intensity, from mild and gradually worsening to sudden and severe.
Beyond abdominal pain, other common indicators include tenderness in the affected area, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Individuals might also develop a fever, typically around 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, are also frequently observed.
Critical Signs for Emergency Care
Certain symptoms associated with diverticulitis signal a medical emergency, necessitating immediate attention at an emergency room. A sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening abdominal pain is a significant red flag. This kind of pain can indicate a serious complication like a tear in the bowel wall or a spreading infection.
A high fever, particularly above 100.4°F (38°C), accompanied by chills or shaking, suggests a significant infection that may be spreading beyond the colon. This can be a sign of complications such as an abscess (a pocket of infected pus) or peritonitis, a life-threatening infection of the abdominal cavity.
Persistent nausea and vomiting that make it impossible to keep down fluids can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, requiring intravenous hydration. Severe abdominal tenderness or rigidity, where the abdomen feels stiff or board-like, indicates potential irritation or inflammation of the abdominal lining, possibly due to perforation or peritonitis.
Rectal bleeding, especially if significant or accompanied by other severe symptoms, warrants urgent medical evaluation. While diverticular bleeding can sometimes resolve, substantial blood loss needs immediate assessment to rule out severe hemorrhage. Signs of shock, such as a rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, or dizziness, point to critical fluid loss or a severe systemic infection. An inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement for an extended period could indicate an intestinal obstruction, potentially requiring urgent intervention.
Preparing for an ER Visit
If an ER visit is necessary for suspected diverticulitis, preparing effectively can streamline the process. Gather all relevant medical information, including current medications, any known allergies, and your medical history. This history should include previous surgeries or medical conditions. Bring your insurance information and identification for registration.
ER wait times can vary significantly based on the severity of your condition and the facility’s current patient load. Having someone accompany you to the ER, if possible, can provide support and help communicate your symptoms and medical history to staff.
Emergency Room Procedures and Treatment
Upon ER arrival, patients with suspected diverticulitis typically undergo triage and an initial assessment. This involves checking vital signs and a brief medical history to prioritize care. Diagnostic tests are then performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess severity.
Blood tests are common, checking for signs of infection or inflammation, such as an elevated white blood cell count. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis is the primary imaging method to diagnose diverticulitis and identify complications like abscesses or perforations. This scan provides detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding structures.
Initial ER treatments often include intravenous (IV) fluids for dehydration and IV antibiotics to combat infection, especially in moderate to severe cases. Pain medication is also administered to manage discomfort. Depending on findings, outcomes range from hospitalization for observation and continued IV treatment to, in severe cases, surgical intervention for complications like a ruptured diverticulum, large abscess, or bowel obstruction.