What should you know about septic diverticulitis?

Diverticula are small pouches in the bowel wall. Diverticulitis occurs when one or more pouches become inflamed; a perforation, abscess or spread of infection can make the illness more severe. Sepsis is the body's dangerous, disorganised response to an infection, and it can affect circulation and organ function.

Abdominal pain is a common presentation of diverticulitis, often with a change in bowel habit such as constipation. These symptoms do not by themselves prove sepsis. A clinician assesses the overall pattern, examination findings and tests.

If septic diverticulitis is suspected, seek urgent medical care rather than treating it at home. Do not take leftover antibiotics or medicines that slow bowel movement unless a clinician advises you. Take your medicine list and describe when the pain, feverish feeling, vomiting or bowel changes began.

Hospital assessment may include examination, blood tests and imaging. Treatment can involve fluids, antibiotics, pain relief and management of a collection or bowel complication. Follow-up may include a GP Consultation and tailored Nutrition Counselling after the acute illness.

Call emergency services for severe or worsening abdominal pain, faintness, confusion, unusual drowsiness, fast or difficult breathing, cold or clammy skin, repeated vomiting, or inability to keep fluids down. Urgent assessment is also needed for a rigid or very swollen abdomen, blood in stool, or a high temperature with marked weakness.

Ask whether the infection is confined to the bowel or has caused an abscess or perforation, which tests are needed, how treatment will be monitored, and which symptoms should prompt immediate return. Ask when normal eating, activity and bowel medicines can restart.