Diverticulitis |
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DESCRIPTION
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Diverticulitis (di-ver-tik-u-LIE-tis) is an inflammation of small pouches called ""diverticula'' that often develop in the wall of the large bowel (colon). Waste from digested food can get trapped in the diverticula and cause swelling and pain.
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CAUSES
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Frequently no cause can be found. Having a family history of diverticulitis or eating a low-fiber diet may make you more likely to have this problem.
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SYMPTOMS
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The main symptom is abdominal pain that either comes and goes or lasts all the time. You may also have a fever, feel like throwing up, or develop tenderness in the belly.
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CARE
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Your doctor may order x-rays and tests. If the diverticula are infected, you may be given antibiotics. If you have a bad infection or if you need surgery to remove part of the colon, you may need a stay in the hospital.
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COMPLICATIONS
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s Without treatment, the problem could get worse, and the diverticula could bleed or burst, causing a life-threatening infection in the abdomen.
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