What should you know about diarrhea and diverticulitis?

Diverticular disease involves small pouches in the bowel wall. When a pouch becomes inflamed, diverticulitis may cause steady lower abdominal pain, tenderness and changes in bowel habit, including diarrhea or constipation. Diarrhea alone does not establish diverticulitis. Other bowel infections and conditions can cause similar symptoms, so the pattern, examination and sometimes testing matter.

Drink enough to avoid dehydration and choose gentle foods that you tolerate. Rest, note the location and progression of pain, and record stool changes, vomiting and temperature readings. Avoid taking laxatives or anti-diarrhea medicines without clinical advice when significant pain or suspected inflammation is present. A GP Consultation can help decide whether examination, tests or treatment are needed.

Seek urgent assessment for severe or steadily worsening abdominal pain, a hard or swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, blood in stool, or inability to drink. Arrange prompt review for new persistent pain with diarrhea, fever, or marked change in bowel habit. Do not wait at home if you are becoming rapidly more unwell.

Ask whether your symptoms fit diverticulitis or another bowel problem, whether examination or imaging is needed, which foods are suitable during recovery, and when Nutrition Counselling could help with longer-term bowel habits.