How Is Diverticulitis Diagnosed?
Diverticulitis is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. When a patient presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits, a healthcare provider will first conduct a thorough physical examination. The doctor may palpate the abdomen to identify areas of tenderness, particularly in the lower left quadrant, where diverticulitis commonly occurs. A blood test may also be ordered to check for signs of infection, such as an elevated white blood cell count, which is common in cases of diverticulitis.
To confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition, imaging tests are often used. A computed tomography (CT) scan is the gold standard for diagnosing diverticulitis. It allows the doctor to see the inflamed or infected diverticula and helps identify any complications, such as abscesses, perforations, or blockages. In some cases, a colonoscopy may be performed after the acute episode subsides to examine the colon and check for the presence of diverticula. Ultrasound or X-rays may also be used, although they are less commonly employed than CT scans in diagnosing diverticulitis.
