Diverticular bleeding occurs when small bulging pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall rupture and leak blood into the bowel. These pouches develop over time-especially in people over 50-and usually cause no issues until bleeding starts. The bleeding can range from mild spotting to a sudden, heavier flow.
Bleeding from diverticula often appears without warning and may not be painful. Typical signs include:
Several factors can contribute to diverticular bleeding:
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Yes. Inflammation from diverticulitis can erode small blood vessels within diverticula and lead to bleeding.
Mild cases often stop on their own within a few hours. More severe bleeding may persist until treated by a healthcare provider.
It can be serious if bleeding is heavy or prolonged, leading to significant blood loss, low blood pressure, and dizziness. Seek immediate medical care if you experience these signs.
Treatment options include colonoscopic interventions such as clip placement or cautery to seal bleeding vessels, IV fluids, blood transfusions, and adjustments to medications.
See a doctor right away if you notice bright red or maroon blood in your stool, feel lightheaded or weak, or have any signs of significant blood loss.
Yes. A high-fiber diet and adequate hydration promote regular bowel movements, reduce pressure in the colon, and may help prevent future bleeding episodes.
Some patients may need to pause or adjust blood thinners or NSAIDs to reduce bleeding risk-but only under the guidance of a physician.
Diagnosis is usually made with a colonoscopy to locate the bleeding source. In some cases, imaging tests such as CT angiography or tagged red blood cell scans are used.
Diverticulosis refers to the presence of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall. Diverticular bleeding occurs when one of these pouches erodes a blood vessel and bleeds.
Surgery is rare and typically reserved for persistent or life-threatening bleeding that cannot be controlled with endoscopic techniques.
