How to Recognize Signs of Diverticulitis

A common digestive system disease condition principally found in the large intestine or the colon is called diverticulitis. Diverticulosis which is the formation of pouches or sacs or diverticula on the external surface of the colon leads to the development of diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is the result of the inflammation or infection of one of the diverticula, such as a blockage of feces or food particles. The enlargement of the colonic diverticulum is brought about as a result of elevated intraluminal colonic pressure. The portion of the colon that has the smallest diameter is the sigmoid colon, the area or portion expected to have the greatest intraluminal pressure. Decreased intake of roughage or dietary fiber predisposes a person to diverticular disease.

Instructions

1

Check for changes in your regular bowel elimination pattern by noting it down in pen and paper. Note the stool's characteristics such as color, shape, consistency and smell. Also, note how many times you are able to defecate in a day or week. Do you have difficulty in elimination?

2

Take your temperature. Normal reading is between 36.5 C to 37.5 C. Ensure that the mercury is at the base of the thermometer and not somewhere in between. Shake the thermometer in a direction that is away the body's center. Note findings.

3

Observe for changes in your eating habits. What does your regular diet consists of? Is there enough roughage or foods high in fiber in your diet? Do you feel nauseous and vomit at the smell of food, during or after eating?

4

Listen for bowel sounds on all four quadrants, allowing one minute per quadrant. You should hear at least five bowel sounds in a minute.

5

Palpate the four quadrants of your abdomen. Is there pain and tenderness on the left lower abdominal quadrant upon palpation?

6

Get a tape measure and measure your waist approximately one inch above your belly button. Record this finding and indicate the date when measurement was taken.

7

Weigh yourself and take note of reading.