Diverticular Disease: Diagnosis & Management of Diverticulitis
A clear guide to diverticular disease, small pouches that form in the colon wall and can become inflamed or infected, causing abdominal pain.
Treatment usually begins with
Symptom Assessment
CT Imaging
Antibiotics if Infected
Dietary Management
Mild diverticular disease is managed with diet and monitoring, while an inflamed or infected episode (diverticulitis) is treated with antibiotics and supportive care.
You may need this evaluated if...
Evaluation for diverticular disease is recommended when these signs appear:
- Pain in the lower left abdomen
- Fever with abdominal pain
- A change in bowel habits with abdominal discomfort
- Rectal bleeding, even if minor
Most diverticular disease is manageable with dietary changes, and even an acute inflamed episode usually responds well to antibiotics and rest.
What is Diverticular Disease?
Diverticular disease occurs when small pouches form in the wall of the colon, most often in older adults, which are usually harmless but can occasionally become inflamed or infected, a condition called diverticulitis.
Very Common With Age
Diverticula become more common as people get older and often cause no symptoms.
Diet Plays a Preventive Role
A fibre-rich diet is associated with a lower risk of complications.
Diverticulitis Is Treatable
An inflamed or infected episode usually settles well with antibiotics and dietary rest.
Recurrence Is Possible
Some people experience repeated episodes, which may need a longer-term management plan.
Common Symptoms
- Lower left abdominal pain
- Bloating and changes in bowel habits
- Fever during an inflamed episode
- Rectal bleeding in some cases
- Nausea during an acute flare
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of dietary, medical and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
CT Imaging
The primary test to confirm diverticulitis and assess its severity during an acute episode.
Blood Tests
Checks for signs of infection or inflammation.
Colonoscopy
Performed after an episode settles to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes.
Clinical Examination
Assesses the location and severity of abdominal tenderness.
Treatment Approaches
Medical & Dietary Management
- A high-fibre diet to help prevent future episodes
- Antibiotics for an infected or inflamed episode
- A temporary low-fibre or liquid diet during an acute flare
- Pain management as advised by your care team
Endoscopic & Surgical Care
Surgery to remove the affected segment of colon is considered for recurrent episodes, complications, or severe infection not responding to antibiotics.
Treatment decisions are based on endoscopy findings, the underlying cause and your overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly helps protect your digestive health.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing concern.
- Mild, occasional lower abdominal discomfort, seeking dietary guidance
Seek Urgent Care
Reach out for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Severe abdominal pain with high fever, or a rigid, tender abdomen
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right gastroenterologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right gastroenterologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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