Symptom 15. Joint Pain: The Unusual Musculoskeletal Sign of Diverticulitis
While diverticulitis primarily affects the digestive system, it can sometimes lead to musculoskeletal symptoms like joint pain. This can occur due to the systemic inflammation caused by the infection in the diverticula. This inflammation can stimulate nerve endings, leading to pain and discomfort in the joints.
The joint pain related to diverticulitis can be intermittent or constant, and it can vary in intensity. It often presents as a dull ache but can sometimes escalate to a more sharp and severe pain, depending on the level of inflammation.
It’s also worth noting that the medications used to treat diverticulitis, particularly antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, can sometimes cause joint pain as a side effect. The severity of this side effect can range from mild discomfort to a debilitating pain that interferes with daily activities.
Joint pain can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making it challenging to perform regular tasks. Hence, it’s essential to communicate any such symptoms to your healthcare provider so that they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Lastly, just like skin rashes, joint pain can also be a manifestation of the body’s immune response to the diverticulitis infection. As the immune system goes into overdrive to combat the infection, it can sometimes result in inflammation in other parts of the body, including the joints. (15)
