Also known as: Acute Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) that form in the walls of the colon become inflamed or infected. It causes sudden abdominal pain, typically in the lower left side.
Diverticula are present in over 50% of adults over 60 (diverticulosis), but only 10-25% develop symptomatic diverticulitis. The condition results from micro-perforations in a diverticulum leading to inflammation.
Most cases (75%) are uncomplicated and resolve with antibiotics or even observation alone. Complicated diverticulitis involves abscess, perforation, fistula, or obstruction and may require surgical intervention.
Recent evidence has shifted management away from routine antibiotics for uncomplicated cases and away from dietary restrictions previously thought to prevent flares.
People with Diverticulitis often experience the following symptoms.
Sudden onset pain in the left lower abdomen — often called 'left-sided appendicitis.' Right-sided pain is more common in Asian populations.
Infection of the diverticulum causes systemic inflammatory response with fever and leucocytosis.
Constipation, diarrhoea, or alternating pattern during and after episodes.
Abdominal inflammation commonly causes nausea and temporary loss of appetite.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Diverticulitis.
Common approaches to managing diverticulitis. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Oral antibiotics (metronidazole + fluoroquinolone) for uncomplicated cases. Recent evidence suggests observation alone may be sufficient for mild cases.
Bowel rest during acute episodes, gradually advancing diet as symptoms improve.
Percutaneous drainage of diverticular abscesses larger than 3-4 cm.
Sigmoid resection for recurrent or complicated diverticulitis. Increasingly performed laparoscopically.
CT scan with contrast is the gold standard, showing bowel wall thickening, pericolic inflammation, and potential complications. Blood tests show elevated inflammatory markers.
Seek emergency care if you have severe abdominal pain, high fever, inability to keep fluids down, or signs of peritonitis (rigid abdomen, rebound tenderness).
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening diverticulitis.
High-fibre diet (30g/day)
Regular exercise
Maintain healthy weight
Adequate hydration
If left untreated or poorly managed, diverticulitis may lead to:
No. This is an outdated myth. Current evidence shows no association between seed/nut consumption and diverticulitis risk.
About 20% of patients have recurrence. High-fibre diet and lifestyle changes reduce this risk.
For complicated disease (abscess, perforation, fistula), recurrent episodes, or immunocompromised patients.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.