Diverticular Bleeding

What Is Diverticular Bleeding?

Diverticular bleeding happens when small pouches (called diverticula) in the colon wall start to bleed. It's most common in people over 50. Unlike rectal bleeding from hemorrhoids or the abdominal pain of diverticulitis, diverticular bleeding is usually painless. If you see bright red blood or clots in your stool, contact your doctor right away.

Common Symptoms

Bleeding from diverticula often begins suddenly. You may notice:

• Bright red or dark blood in the toilet bowl or on toilet paper
• Blood clots mixed in your stool
• Heavy bleeding that may stop on its own and then recur
• Weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness if bleeding is severe

Causes

Diverticular bleeding occurs when one of the tiny blood vessels in a diverticulum is injured or ruptures. Common triggers include:

• Increased pressure inside a pouch causing a vessel to break
• Straining during constipation, which can damage the colon lining
• Chronic inflammation around a diverticulum that wears down vessel walls
• Use of blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) that raise bleeding risk

Treatment Options for Diverticular Bleeding in Cypress

Treatment includes emergency care, endoscopic therapy, and preventive measures:

• IV fluids & blood transfusions: Restore hydration and replace lost blood if bleeding is severe.
• Colonoscopy intervention: Identify and treat the bleeding diverticulum with direct visualization.
• Endoscopic clipping or thermocoagulation: Seal the torn vessel to stop bleeding immediately.
• Medication adjustments: Temporarily hold or modify anticoagulants and NSAIDs to lower bleeding risk.
• High-fiber diet plan: Increase soluble and insoluble fiber intake to soften stools and reduce straining.
• Constipation management: Use stool softeners or gentle laxatives as directed to maintain regular bowel movements.
• Follow-up colonoscopy or imaging: Confirm bleeding has resolved and assess diverticula status.
• Possible surgery: In rare, recurrent or uncontrolled bleeding cases, a segmental colon resection may be recommended.