What should you know about extensive colonic diverticulosis?

Diverticula are pockets that form where the colon wall is weaker. Diverticulosis can cause no symptoms and may be found during an examination for another reason. Diverticular disease refers to symptoms linked with these pockets, while diverticulitis means inflammation or infection. The words in a report therefore need to be matched with how you feel.

Symptoms may include cramping, altered bowel habits or abdominal pain. Constipation can occur, but a new or persistent change should not automatically be attributed to diverticulosis.

Arrange a GP Consultation to review the report, your bowel pattern, medicines and any previous episodes. Gradually building fibre from foods and drinking enough fluid may help some people, but increase fibre carefully if it worsens bloating. Nutrition Counselling can help create a plan that fits your symptoms and other health needs.

Do not start antibiotics or restrict foods without medical advice. Keep a note of pain, stool changes, fever and any blood so the pattern is clear at review.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen with vomiting, fever with marked tenderness, or blood in the stool. These symptoms can have causes beyond uncomplicated diverticulosis and need assessment.

Does my report show diverticulosis, diverticular disease or inflammation? Could my Abdominal Pain or Constipation have another cause? Should I change fibre gradually? Which symptoms should prompt a same-day review?