Symptom 3. Constipation or Diarrhea: The Inconsistent Bowel Movements of Diverticulitis
Bowel movement changes, particularly constipation or diarrhea, can be key symptoms of diverticulitis. Although such symptoms might seem unrelated to inflamed diverticula, they are, in fact, directly connected to the impact of diverticulitis on the functioning of the digestive system.
When the diverticula become inflamed or infected, the intestinal muscles responsible for moving food through the digestive tract can be disrupted. This disturbance can lead to either an acceleration or slowing down of the transit of food and waste material. When things speed up, diarrhea may ensue. When they slow down, constipation might be the result.
The discomfort accompanying constipation or diarrhea can significantly impact one’s quality of life. The urgency and unpredictability of diarrhea can lead to feelings of anxiety and impact day-to-day activities. On the other hand, constipation can bring about a feeling of incomplete evacuation and bloating, causing discomfort and distress.
The severity of these symptoms can vary from one individual to another, and so can their duration. For some, they may last for a few days, while others might experience them for weeks. A key factor here is the extent of inflammation or infection in the diverticula, which can dictate the severity and duration of the associated symptoms.
Navigating the unpredictability of bowel movements in diverticulitis can be challenging. However, gaining an understanding of these symptoms and their origins can help manage them better, making it easier to cope with the condition. (3)
