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Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition where there is infection in the tiny areas of weakness in the large intestine. Feces can get stuck in these weak pouches (diverticulum) and lead to inflammation and infection. This condition usually affects people over the age of 60 years. There is inflammation or infection in the diverticulum. Diverticula can form in different parts of the digestive tract, be it the esophagus, small intestine or stomach. It is associated with diets low in fiber. Diverticulitis is noticed more in persons from developed nations who partake refined, high fat food. Fiber in the diet prevents constipation and allows for easier passage of stools. This prevents formation of bulging diverticulum. If left untreated, diverticulitis can lead to bleeding and blockage thereby causing serious illness.

Abdominal pain is a primary symptom of diverticulitis. There is tenderness around the left side of the abdomen and may be accompanied by fever, vomiting, chills and cramps. Often a person suffering from diverticulitis may not exhibit any symptoms. There may be difficulty in passing urine and frequent need to pass urine. Diverticulitis is usually diagnosed during routine checks for intestinal problems and colorectal cancer. CT scan and blood tests can aid in the diagnosis.

When a patient is suffering from diverticulitis, a low-fiber and clear liquid diet is usually recommended. A high fiber diet helps in keeping diverticulitis at bay. Fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains make for high fiber content. Drinking plenty of water will help prevent constipation. Antibiotics are prescribed to treat any inflammation and infection. Surgery is resorted to in cases where the diverticulum forms an obstruction. Changes in diet can go a long way in treating diverticulitis. Read more on diverticulitis diet to make modifications and add fiber to your meals.

Intestinal Obstruction

An intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete block of the bowel. This means that intestinal contents cannot pass through to the bowels. Intestinal obstruction can occur due to peptic ulcer, diverticulitis, scar tissue or cancer of the intestines. Mechanical obstruction of the intestines can happen due to hernia, gallstones or tumors blocking the intestines. Other causes include ileus, that are not really mechanical obstructions. They can be caused due to kidney or thoracic disease, Crohn's disease, ischemic colitis, metabolic imbalance or any obstruction to blood supply to the abdomen. Obstructions are more often found in the small intestine.

Intestinal obstruction gives rise to symptoms such as fullness and gaseousness in the abdomen. The patient might suffer vomiting and diarrhea. Abdominal distension might be felt due to gas getting trapped. Blood-stained mucus might be passed. A general physical examination and tests such as barium enema and abdominal CT scans helps in diagnosing any possible abdominal obstruction and its location.

In most cases, patients suffering from intestinal obstruction are hospitalized so that they can be treated. They are placed on intravenous fluids. A stomach tube aids in draining air and fluids. Surgery is often performed to relieve the blockage. But it hinges on the cause and location of the intestinal obstruction.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Gastrointestinal Bleeding or GI bleeding refers to bleeding from any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth and esophagus to the stomach or intestines. Gastrointestinal bleeding can occur due to infection or medications that damage tissues leading to bleeding. GI bleeding needs to be monitored carefully and attended to. Upper Gastrointestinal bleeding can result from gastritis or peptic ulcers. Lower GI bleeding is often due to diverticulitis, polyps, anal fissures or hemorrhoids.

Acute GI bleeding manifests in bloody bowel movements and vomiting of blood. There is fatigue and weakness. The patient suffering GI bleeding may suffer pain in the abdomen. A person suffering from gastrointestinal bleeding experience thirst, low blood pressure and dizziness. The patient may notice black tarry stools.

Laboratory tests, endoscopy and rectal examinations may be needed to determine the source of the gastrointestinal bleeding. Excessive bleeding can lead to anemia. In severe cases, it can lead to shock and may need hospitalization for further treatment. There might be need for blood transfusion. Upper GI bleeding can be treated with injection of chemicals. Medicines are then prescribed to prevent the bleeding from recurring. If polyps or hemorrhoids are the cause for gastrointestinal bleeding, they are surgically removed.