Side effects of diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when small pockets in the bowel become inflamed. Pain is often steady and may be felt in the lower abdomen, with changes in bowel habit, reduced appetite or fever. Inflammation can irritate nearby tissues. A collection of infected fluid, a bowel blockage or a connection to another organ are possible complications, although symptoms alone cannot identify one. New abdominal pain should not automatically be attributed to diverticulitis because urinary and gynaecological conditions can feel similar.

Arrange medical advice for suspected diverticulitis, especially with abdominal pain and fever. Follow the eating and drinking plan given by your clinician; during an acute episode, they may recommend temporary dietary changes before a gradual return to usual foods. Take prescribed medicines exactly as directed and do not use leftover antibiotics. Once well, ask about fibre, fluids and activity rather than making sudden dietary changes. Nutrition Counselling may help if bowel symptoms keep recurring.

Seek urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a hard or swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to pass stool or gas, fainting, confusion, heavy rectal bleeding or persistent fever. Seek prompt review if you cannot keep fluids down or symptoms do not improve. A GP Consultation is appropriate for milder but ongoing pain, constipation or diarrhoea.

Ask whether your symptoms need imaging or blood tests, which foods and medicines are suitable during recovery, how to prevent constipation, and which changes should trigger a return visit. Tell the clinician about prior bowel episodes and any bleeding.