
Although they are both conditions of the large intestine and share some common symptoms, diverticulitis and ulcerative colitis are different gastrointestinal problems. Diverticulitis is usually an acute condition (although sometimes recurring) where small sacs develop in the lining of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong inflammatory bowel disease causing inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon. They can both be very serious, which is why proper diagnosis and treatment are critical.
About Diverticulitis
In diverticulitis, sacs or pouches form in the wall of the colon and cause flareups when they become inflamed or infected. Diverticulitis flareups are most likely caused by bacteria or pressure from bowel movements that cause tearing or irritation. Why they develop in the first place is unknown. However, several risk factors can make it more likely to occur.
They include:
- A family history of diverticulitis.
- Smoking.
- Obesity.
- Low-fiber diets or those high in red meat.
- Lack of physical activity.
- Medications.
- Impaired immune function.
Diverticulitis symptoms can vary in severity. They typically include stomach pain, bloating, nausea or vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, fever, and chills. It can usually be treated with antibiotics and dietary changes. Medication is sometimes required to reduce inflammation.
Ulcerative Colitis Overview
As mentioned earlier, ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The other type is called Crohn’s disease. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes inflammation and ulcer formation in the large intestine.
Like diverticulitis, the cause of ulcerative colitis is also unknown. What we do know is that ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disease: a condition in which an overactive immune system attacks healthy tissue. What causes ulcerative colitis to occur may include genetic predisposition, immune system dysfunction, microbiome makeup, and environmental and lifestyle factors.
Ulcerative colitis symptoms can become severe. They include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, weight loss, fatigue and decreased appetite. Treatment is typically composed of dietary and lifestyle changes, along with medication to reduce inflammation. For severe cases that are unresponsive to conservative treatment, surgery may be required.
The Bottom Line
While diverticulitis and ulcerative colitis are different conditions with varying causes, risk factors and symptoms, there are two common risk factors: age and race. They are both more likely to occur as you get older, and they affect white people more than people of other races.
It is important to make an appointment with your doctor if you have ongoing digestive symptoms, as gastrointestinal conditions can lead to serious complications. The only way to know if you have one of these conditions (or something else) is through a proper diagnosis. This often requires a referral to a gastroenterologist. Tests may include blood tests, stool testing, colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy and other gastrointestinal imaging.
The team at GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C., treats multiple conditions and diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Our board-certified physicians have more than 150 years of combined experience in providing quality care you can trust. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 631-9121 or visit gis.md.