Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is inflammation or infection involving small pouches that can develop in the bowel wall. It may cause persistent abdominal pain, often on the lower left side, with fever or a change in bowel habit. New significant abdominal pain needs assessment because several other conditions can produce similar symptoms.

Is it different from diverticular disease?

Yes. Having bowel pouches does not necessarily mean they are inflamed or causing symptoms. A previous scan showing pouches does not prove that a new episode of pain is diverticulitis. The doctor considers the current symptoms, examination and sometimes blood tests or imaging.

Tell the clinician where the pain started, whether it is constant or worsening, and whether you are passing stool and gas. Mention vomiting, fever, bleeding and previous episodes. Bring details of earlier scans or hospital treatment if available.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Diverticular disease - diverticulitis and diverticulosis - Healthdirect Australia.

Can it be treated at home?

Some people can be managed outside hospital, while others need urgent investigation or admission. That decision depends on severity, general health and the possibility of complications. It should not be made solely from a symptom checklist or because a previous episode settled at home.

Ask for clear instructions about eating, drinking, treatment and review. Advice during an acute episode may differ from long-term bowel health advice. Do not start a restrictive diet indefinitely or use an old treatment plan without checking whether it applies now. If symptoms fail to improve as expected, another assessment may be necessary.

When do I need urgent care?

Severe or worsening pain, fever with significant illness, repeated vomiting, blood in the stool or inability to keep fluids down needs prompt in-person assessment. Call 000 if there is collapse or another life-threatening deterioration. Telehealth can help direct care, but suspected diverticulitis often requires an abdominal examination and sometimes tests that cannot be completed online.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.