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Diverticulitis
Urgent
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches that form in the wall of the colon become inflamed or otherwise develop complications. It commonly causes abdominal pain, often in the lower left abdomen, and may also cause fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to complications such as abscess, obstruction, perforation, or peritonitis.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Diverticulitis requires prompt assessment when symptoms are significant. Seek urgent care for persistent or severe lower abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, abdominal swelling, inability to pass stool or gas, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Emergency care is needed for severe pain with fainting, confusion, heavy bleeding, or signs of perforation or severe infection.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches that form in the wall of the colon become inflamed or otherwise develop complications. It commonly causes abdominal pain, often in the lower left abdomen, and may also cause fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to complications such as abscess, obstruction, perforation, or peritonitis.
Symptoms 3
Bloating
Fever
Heartburn
Causes 1
The exact cause of diverticulitis is not fully understood. Diverticulitis occurs in people who have diverticula, or small pouches, in the colon wall. Factors that may contribute to diverticular disease include a diet low in fiber, higher intake of red meat, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and certain medicines such as NSAIDs and steroids.
Inflammation
Risk Factors
Risk factors for diverticulitis include a diet low in fiber and high in red meat, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and use of certain medicines such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids. Having diverticula is the underlying condition in which diverticulitis occurs. Genetic and other biological factors may also influence individual risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis of diverticulitis begins with a medical history and physical examination, including assessment of abdominal pain and tenderness. Blood tests may help identify inflammation or complications. CT scanning is commonly used to evaluate suspected diverticulitis and its complications, while ultrasound or MRI may also be used in appropriate situations. Colonoscopy may be recommended in selected cases to evaluate the colon or exclude other conditions.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Some lifestyle measures may lower the risk of diverticulitis
A diet higher in fiber and lower in red meat may be helpful, together with regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking
People with diverticular disease should discuss medicines that may affect risk with a healthcare professional
Individual dietary recommendations may vary depending on symptoms and medical history
Prevention Guidance
Some lifestyle measures may lower the risk of diverticulitis. A diet higher in fiber and lower in red meat may be helpful, together with regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking. People with diverticular disease should discuss medicines that may affect risk with a healthcare professional. Individual dietary recommendations may vary depending on symptoms and medical history.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Clear Liquids
May be recommended during acute attacks.
Cooked Vegetables
Support recovery.
High Fiber Diet
Helpful after recovery.
Adequate Water
Supports bowel health.
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods
May worsen bowel health.
Low Fiber Diet
May increase recurrence risk.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is inflammation or infection of diverticula in the colon.
Abdominal pain, fever, and bowel changes may occur.
CT scan and clinical evaluation are commonly used.
A high-fiber diet may help reduce risk.
Severe or recurrent cases may require surgery.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.