diverticulitis

Overview
Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches (called diverticula) that form in the lining of the colon become inflamed or infected. These pouches are common and usually harmless (a condition called diverticulosis), but when they become irritated or filled with bacteria, they can cause pain and serious digestive issues.

Why It’s Important
Diverticulitis can lead to severe abdominal pain, infection, and complications like abscesses, bowel blockages, or even colon rupture if not treated properly. It’s a leading cause of hospitalizations for gastrointestinal issues, especially in older adults.

Quick Facts

  • Most common in people over age 40

  • Affects up to 50% of adults by age 60 (diverticulosis); 10–25% develop diverticulitis

  • More common in developed countries with low-fiber diets

  • Typically acute, but recurrent episodes can lead to chronic issues

  • Can be mild or severe, sometimes requiring surgery

What Happens in the Body
Pressure in the colon causes weak spots in the intestinal wall to bulge outward, forming diverticula. When one or more of these pouches becomes blocked—often by stool—it can trap bacteria, leading to inflammation or infection. This results in pain and, in severe cases, tissue damage or perforation of the colon.

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • Sudden pain (usually lower left abdomen)

  • Fever and chills

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)

  • Bloating or cramping

  • Tenderness in the lower abdomen

  • In severe cases: blood in stool, inability to pass gas, or signs of peritonitis (medical emergency)

Diagnosis

  • Physical exam with attention to abdominal tenderness

  • CT scan is the most common and accurate diagnostic test

  • Blood tests may show elevated white cells or inflammation

  • Colonoscopy is typically done after recovery (not during acute flare-up) to rule out other conditions

  • Seek medical care if you have persistent abdominal pain, fever, or GI symptoms

Treatment and Management

  • Mild cases: rest, oral antibiotics, and clear liquid diet until symptoms improve

  • Moderate to severe cases may require:

    • Hospitalization

    • IV antibiotics

    • Pain management

    • Surgery in case of perforation, abscess, or recurrent episodes

  • Long-term prevention includes:

    • High-fiber diet

    • Adequate hydration

    • Regular physical activity

  • Diverticulitis is treatable, but recurrences are possible

Risks and Complications

  • Abscess formation

  • Fistulas (abnormal connections between organs)

  • Bowel obstruction

  • Perforation and peritonitis (life-threatening)

  • Recurrent diverticulitis may lead to chronic inflammation

Who Is at Risk

  • Older adults, especially over 50

  • Low-fiber diets

  • Obesity

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Smoking

  • Regular use of NSAIDs, steroids, or opioids

  • Family history of diverticular disease

Related Conditions

  • Diverticulosis

  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

  • Colon cancer (must be ruled out after diverticulitis episode)

  • Ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease (similar symptoms)

When to See a Doctor

  • If you experience sudden, persistent abdominal pain, especially with fever

  • If symptoms worsen or return after treatment

  • If you see blood in your stool

  • For routine colonoscopy after recovery to evaluate colon health

Last Updated: June 21, 2025