Diverticulitis is a painful, potentially serious condition that develops when diverticula, or small, bulging pouches in the lining of the digestive system become inflamed, infected or both. These pouches form typically in the lower part of the large intestine (colon), when naturally weak spots give way under pressure, causing marble-sized pockets to protrude through the colon wall. The formation of these pouches is a condition called diverticulosis and is, in most cases, asymptomatic and does not create problems for its sufferers.

How Is Diverticulitis Different Than Diverticulosis?

More than half of Americans older than 60 have developed diverticula in their digestive systems, and these pouches are common in adults older than 40. In most cases, these pouches will not cause significant problems, and the only indication that they exist may be some bloating or cramping in the lower abdomen, potentially accompanied by some blood in the stool.

While the exact cause of these pouches is unknown, it is believed that diets high in animal fat or processed foods, with low fiber intake, can trigger the formation of these pouches. The reasoning is that constipation and hard stools are common in adults who don’t eat enough fiber, causing them to strain to pass stools, thus putting pressure on the colon and intestines.

In some cases, one (or several) of these pouches may tear, causing small pieces of feces to become trapped in the pouches, causing infection or inflammation. This disorder typically has severe and rapid symptom onset, bringing the sufferer severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea and a marked change in bowel movements. Treatment options for this condition vary depending on the severity of the case, the degree of tearing, and the level of infection or inflammation the patient sustains.