When is GP consultation recommended for diverticular disease?

Diverticular disease involves small pouches in the bowel wall. Some people have no symptoms, while others develop lower abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea. Diverticulitis occurs when a pouch becomes inflamed and may cause more constant pain, fever, nausea or marked tenderness. These symptoms can have other causes, so an assessment helps distinguish a stable pattern from inflammation, bleeding or another bowel problem.

Record where the pain is, when it began, whether it follows meals or bowel movements, and any change in stool frequency or appearance. Note fever, vomiting, urinary symptoms, previous episodes, and medicines such as anti-inflammatory painkillers. Drink normally unless a clinician has advised otherwise, and do not start antibiotics left over from an earlier illness. Your GP may examine your abdomen and decide whether tests or specialist review are needed.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, a swollen or hard abdomen, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, inability to pass stool or gas, or heavy or ongoing rectal bleeding. Fever with significant abdominal tenderness also needs prompt assessment. If you feel acutely unwell, do not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit diverticular disease or diverticulitis, whether any medicines could irritate the bowel, which changes should trigger urgent review, and how to manage constipation or diarrhoea safely.