What should you know about diverticular disease?

Small pouches can form in the wall of the large bowel. Their presence without symptoms is called diverticulosis. Diverticular disease describes symptoms linked with these pouches, while diverticulitis means that a pouch has become inflamed. Possible symptoms include lower abdominal discomfort, bloating, altered bowel habits, constipation, or diarrhoea. Abdominal pain can have many causes, so symptoms alone cannot confirm diverticular disease. A clinician may use your history, examination, and selected tests to clarify the cause.

Keep a record of pain, bowel movements, foods, and medicines to discuss at an appointment. Drink fluids regularly and increase fibre gradually if your clinician recommends it; a sudden change can worsen bloating. Gentle movement and avoiding straining may support bowel function. Do not start laxatives, antibiotics, or a restrictive diet without advice. Nutrition counselling can help you find a tolerable eating pattern, especially when symptoms return or your diet has become very limited.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or steadily worsening abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, faintness, or blood in the stool. Contact a clinician promptly if pain persists, bowel habits change suddenly, or you cannot keep fluids down. A GP consultation can help decide whether examination or tests are needed.

Ask whether your symptoms fit diverticular disease or another bowel problem, how to adjust fibre safely, which pain medicines are suitable, and what warning signs should trigger urgent review.