Diverticulitis is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.
During a physical exam, a healthcare provider may perform a gentle palpation of the abdomen to look for any areas of tenderness or swelling. They may also listen to your abdomen using a stethoscope to check for bowel sounds.
Diagnostic tests may include:
- Blood tests: Blood tests can help identify signs of infection, inflammation, or dehydration.
- Stool sample: A stool sample may be taken to check for signs of infection or inflammation.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as a CT scan, ultrasound, or X-ray, can help confirm the presence of diverticula or detect signs of inflammation, such as thickening of the colon wall or pockets of infection.
- Colonoscopy: In some cases, a colonoscopy may be recommended to examine the colon and rule out other potential causes of symptoms.
It is important to see a healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms of diverticulitis, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.
