A woman sitting on a couch winces in discomfort while holding her hand against her lower side.

Diverticulosis & Diverticulitis

November 1, 2024

Online Clinic

Digestive & Urinary

Sometimes small pouches bulge outward through weak spots in the colon. This is called diverticulosis. The pockets (called diverticula) can fill with intestinal waste. With diverticulitis, these pockets and areas around them get inflamed or infected.

Signs & Symptoms

Diverticulosis

Often this has no symptoms. Some persons may have:

Mild cramps
Bloating
Constipation or diarrhea
Blood in the stool

Diverticulitis

Severe cramping and bloating in the abdomen, usually on the lower left side. The pain is made worse with a bowel movement.
Tenderness over the abdomen
Nausea or vomiting
Fever

Causes

A low fiber diet is thought to be the main cause. Constipation and overuse of laxatives may also play a role.

Treatment

Diverticulitis needs medical treatment. Diverticulosis can’t be cured, but self-care measures can reduce symptoms and prevent serious problems.

Triage Questions

Question 1

Do you have any of these problems?

Very severe abdominal pain
Signs of an intestinal obstruction: Inability to pass stool or even gas; mild fever and weakness; abdominal cramps that come and go; the abdomen gets more and more swollen with increasing pain; hiccups that don’t stop; and vomiting
Blood in the stool, tarlike, or maroon-colored stool

Self-Care

Get regular exercise. Drink 1-1/2 to 2 quarts of water daily. Eat a diet high in fiber, including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, lentils, and nuts.
Avoid the regular use of “stimulant” laxatives, such as Ex-Lax. Ask your doctor about taking bulk-forming laxatives like Metamucil.
Try not to strain when you have bowel movements.