Common site of diverticulitis

Diverticulitis most commonly affects pouches in the lower part of the large intestine, often causing pain in the lower left abdomen. The pain may be steady or tender and can occur with fever, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea. Location can vary, including when the bowel’s position differs, so abdominal pain alone cannot confirm diverticulitis.

Diverticula are small pouches that form in the bowel wall. Diverticulitis develops when one or more become inflamed or infected. The sigmoid colon, in the lower left side of the abdomen, is a common site because it handles firm stool and pressure during bowel movements. Some people feel pain in another area, and tenderness may spread. Diverticular disease can exist without inflammation, so a clinician may need to distinguish it from constipation, urinary problems, bowel infection or other causes of abdominal pain.

Arrange a GP Consultation for new, persistent or worsening lower abdominal pain, particularly with fever or a change in bowel habit. Note the pain’s location, timing, severity, bowel movements, vomiting and any blood. Follow the clinician’s advice about fluids, food and medicines; avoid taking laxatives or anti-inflammatory pain medicines without guidance when significant abdominal pain is present. After assessment, Nutrition Counselling may help with longer-term bowel habits and fibre changes when appropriate.

Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, a rigid or swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, inability to pass stool or gas, or blood in the stool. Fever with marked tenderness also needs prompt assessment. Emergency help is appropriate if you feel seriously unwell or cannot keep fluids down. These signs can indicate a complication or another condition requiring examination and testing.

Could my pain be diverticulitis or another bowel problem? Do I need tests today? Which foods and fluids are suitable during recovery? When should I seek urgent help? How can I lower the chance of future symptoms?