Diverticulitis – Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Overview of Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is an inflammation or infection of diverticula, which are small sacs that form in weak spots of the colon wall. These pouches are common, especially as people age, and are usually harmless. However, when they become inflamed or infected, it results in diverticulitis, which can cause significant discomfort and potential complications.

How common is diverticulitis?

Diverticula themselves are very common—this is called diverticulosis—and are found in more than half of people over age 60. Only about 10–25% of people with diverticulosis develop diverticulitis during their lifetime. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), diverticulitis is one of the most frequent digestive conditions leading to emergency care in adults over 40.

Daily life impact of diverticulitis

For many people, diverticulitis means more than just abdominal pain. It can disrupt work, limit social activities, and make everyday tasks stressful. Episodes of pain, fatigue, and unpredictable bowel movements can interfere with sleep and lower your overall quality of life. People often avoid certain foods or social settings for fear of triggering symptoms. In severe or recurrent cases, surgery or hospitalization may be necessary, adding further emotional and physical strain.

How is diverticulitis different from other digestive issues?

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS involves abdominal discomfort and bowel habit changes but does not cause inflammation or infection.
• Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis: These are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) with long-term immune system involvement, unlike diverticulitis, which is usually triggered by local infection.
• Appendicitis: Both appendicitis and diverticulitis cause abdominal pain and fever, but appendicitis is limited to the appendix, while diverticulitis occurs in the colon.

Reference: Peery AF, Shaukat A, Strate LL. AGA Clinical Practice Update on Medical Management of Colonic Diverticulitis. Gastroenterology. 2021;160(3):906-911. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2020.09.059

Symptoms of Diverticulitis

The main symptom of diverticulitis is sudden abdominal pain, usually in the lower left side, often combined with fever and changes in bowel habits.

What are the main symptoms of diverticulitis?

Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain – usually sharp and constant, often felt in the lower left abdomen.
• Fever and chills – a sign of infection.
• Nausea and vomiting – especially if the bowel is obstructed.
• Constipation or diarrhea – bowel habits may change suddenly.
• Bloating or cramping – from trapped gas and inflammation.

How severe can symptoms of diverticulitis get?

Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe illness. Mild cases may cause nagging abdominal pain and bloating. Moderate cases include fever and nausea. Severe cases can cause intense pain, high fever, and complications like abscesses, perforation (tear in the colon wall), or peritonitis (life-threatening abdominal infection).

Red flag signs to watch for

• Seek medical help immediately if you notice:
• Severe abdominal pain that doesn’t improve
• High fever (over 101°F/38.3°C)
• Blood in your stool
• Inability to keep food or fluids down
• Signs of shock (dizziness, rapid heartbeat, fainting)

Emotional and functional impact

Disruptive symptoms can affect your work, family life, and social connections. Many people feel embarrassed discussing bowel problems, leading to unnecessary delays in care. Chronic flare-ups may cause anxiety about eating, exercising, or traveling, which in turn impacts mental health and relationships.

Reference: Strate LL, Morris AM. Epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of diverticulitis. Gastroenterology. 2019;156(5):1282-1298.e1. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2018.12.033

Causes and Risk Factors for Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when one or more diverticula become inflamed or infected, often due to pressure or blockage in the colon.

What causes diverticulitis?

The exact cause is not always clear, but common mechanisms include:

• Blockage of diverticula: Trapped stool or food particles can block a pouch, leading to infection.
• Increased pressure: Straining during bowel movements or chronic constipation puts stress on colon walls.
• Weakened tissues: With age, colon walls naturally lose strength and elasticity.

Risk factors you should know

Some factors make diverticulitis more likely:

• Age: Most common in adults over 40.
• Low-fiber diet: Diets high in red meat and processed foods and low in fiber may increase risk.
• Obesity: Excess weight raises abdominal pressure and inflammation risk.
• Physical inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles are linked to higher rates.
• Smoking: Smoking is associated with more frequent flare-ups and complications.
• Certain medications: Long-term use of NSAIDs, steroids, or opioids can increase risk.
• Genetics: A family history of diverticulitis raises your chances.

Lifestyle and work-related connections

Sedentary jobs, long hours of sitting, and irregular eating habits can contribute to constipation and increased colon pressure. Athletes or those with physically demanding jobs may also be at risk if hydration and nutrition are poor, though staying active overall tends to reduce risk.

How is diverticulitis different from diverticulosis?

• Diverticulosis means having diverticula (the small pouches) without symptoms.
• Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and illness.

Reference: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis. Updated 2021.

Clinical Path of Diverticulitis – Diagnosis, Recovery, and Management

Diverticulitis is a condition that can range from mild abdominal discomfort to life-threatening complications if untreated. Understanding how it is diagnosed, what recovery looks like, and which evidence-based management strategies work best helps you feel more informed and empowered in your care journey.

Diagnosis of Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, lab tests, and imaging studies. Because the symptoms overlap with other digestive conditions, accurate diagnosis is essential to guide treatment.

How do doctors test for diverticulitis?

Doctors usually start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. A physical exam often includes checking for abdominal tenderness, especially in the lower left side. To confirm a diagnosis, the following tests are commonly used:

• Blood tests: Check for signs of infection such as elevated white blood cell count.
• Urine tests: Rule out urinary tract infections or kidney problems that can mimic abdominal pain.
• CT (computed tomography) scan: The gold standard for diagnosing diverticulitis. It shows inflamed or infected diverticula and can identify complications such as abscesses or perforations.
• Ultrasound or MRI: Sometimes used as alternatives, particularly in younger patients or pregnant women.
• Colonoscopy (delayed): Usually performed several weeks after recovery, not during the acute phase, to rule out other conditions like colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

How is diverticulitis different from other digestive conditions?

Unlike irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which causes chronic abdominal discomfort without infection, diverticulitis involves localized infection and inflammation of diverticula. Compared to appendicitis, diverticulitis pain is usually on the lower left side, while appendicitis typically causes right-sided abdominal pain.

Identifying the root cause

Practitioners also evaluate risk factors such as diet, obesity, smoking, or medication use. This helps distinguish whether the episode is isolated or part of a pattern requiring long-term lifestyle changes.

Reference: Andeweg CS, et al. Guidelines of diagnostics and treatment of acute left-sided colonic diverticulitis. Dig Surg. 2013;30(4-6):278-292. doi:10.1159/000354035

Recovery & Prognosis of Diverticulitis

Most people with mild diverticulitis recover fully with treatment, but recovery time and outcomes depend on the severity of the episode.

How long does it take to recover from diverticulitis?

• Mild cases (uncomplicated): Often improve within 7–10 days with rest, antibiotics (when prescribed), and dietary adjustments.
• Moderate cases: May require hospitalization for IV antibiotics, fluids, and bowel rest, with recovery in 2–3 weeks.
• Severe cases (complicated): If abscesses, perforation, or obstructions occur, surgery may be needed, and full recovery can take 6–12 weeks or longer.

What are the chances of recurrence?

Up to 20–40% of people may experience another episode within 10 years. Recurrence is more likely if risk factors such as low-fiber diet, obesity, and smoking are not addressed. However, lifestyle modifications can greatly reduce the likelihood of flare-ups.

Long-term lifestyle outcomes

• Return to work: Many people return to work within 1–2 weeks after mild cases, though longer rest may be needed for physically demanding jobs.
• Return to sport/exercise: Light activity may resume once pain resolves, with gradual return to full exercise after medical clearance.
• Mental health impact: Fear of recurrence can cause anxiety around eating and socializing. Support, counseling, or nutritional guidance can help rebuild confidence.

Decision pathway: if/then logic

• If your diverticulitis is mild and stable → outpatient treatment with rest, fluids, and close monitoring.
• If you have moderate symptoms, fever, or complications → hospital admission and IV therapy are likely.
• If severe complications (perforation, peritonitis, or repeated recurrences) are present → surgery may be recommended.

Reference: Sartelli M, et al. 2020 update of the WSES guidelines for the management of acute colonic diverticulitis. World J Emerg Surg. 2020;15(1):32. doi:10.1186/s13017-020-00313-4

Management of Diverticulitis

Managing diverticulitis involves short-term treatment of acute flare-ups and long-term strategies to prevent recurrence.

How to manage diverticulitis at home

• For mild cases, self-care plays a major role. Typical strategies include:
• Rest and hydration: Allowing your digestive system to recover.
• Temporary liquid or low-fiber diet: Reduces strain on the colon during healing.
• Gradual return to high-fiber foods: Once recovered, a high-fiber diet helps prevent future episodes.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers (avoiding NSAIDs when possible due to increased risk of recurrence).

Step-by-step self-help & relief tips

1. During a flare-up: Follow a clear-liquid diet (broths, clear juices, gelatin) for 1–2 days if recommended by your provider.
2. Transition phase: Slowly add soft, low-fiber foods like white rice, bananas, or eggs.
3. Prevention phase: Reintroduce whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to keep bowel movements regular.
4. Stay active: Daily walking or light exercise reduces constipation and supports digestive health.
5. Monitor symptoms: Keep a symptom diary to spot triggers and discuss patterns with your doctor.

Professional management strategies

• Antibiotics: Often prescribed for infections, though some mild cases may be managed without.
• Surgery: Reserved for severe complications or repeated episodes. Options include removing the affected colon segment.
• Lifestyle interventions:
  • Increase dietary fiber (whole grains, vegetables, legumes).
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Avoid unnecessary NSAID use.

Social and emotional supports

Diverticulitis doesn’t just affect your digestive system—it also impacts your confidence, relationships, and routines. Support groups, counseling, or dietitian consultations can help you manage the emotional and lifestyle side of recovery.

Reference: Strate LL, Morris AM. Epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of diverticulitis. Gastroenterology. 2019;156(5):1282–1298.e1. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2018.12.033

Multidisciplinary Care for Diverticulitis at CARESPACE

At CARESPACE, diverticulitis care is not handled in isolation — it is approached through a coordinated team of healthcare professionals who address both your physical recovery and long-term well-being. This multidisciplinary model ensures that every aspect of your health is supported, from immediate pain management to lifestyle strategies that help prevent future flare-ups.

How does CARESPACE treat diverticulitis differently?

Unlike standard single-discipline treatment, CARESPACE integrates multiple services to create a personalized, evidence-based care plan. This means you don’t have to navigate recovery alone — our team works together to support your body, nutrition, mental health, and overall lifestyle.

For example, someone recovering from an acute flare of diverticulitis may first work with a nutritionist to ease back into a high-fiber diet safely. At the same time, a physiotherapist may guide gentle activity to improve circulation and reduce abdominal strain, while a psychotherapist supports coping with anxiety about food triggers or recurrence. This coordinated approach ensures your care is balanced and focused on both healing and prevention.

Why does a team approach help diverticulitis recovery faster?

Healing from diverticulitis often requires addressing more than the infection itself. Pain, stress, fatigue, and lifestyle habits all play a role in how quickly you recover and how likely the condition is to come back. By working as a team, CARESPACE providers coordinate their expertise to make your recovery smoother and more sustainable.

• Nutrition & naturopathic care: Support safe reintroduction of foods, reduce inflammation naturally, and prevent constipation with tailored diet planning.
• Physiotherapy & kinesiology: Help you safely rebuild activity levels, strengthen your core, and improve mobility without straining your abdomen.
• Psychotherapy & coaching: Address anxiety, stress, and fear of recurrence, which are common after an acute episode. Coping strategies also improve sleep and reduce flare-up risk.
• Massage therapy & acupuncture: Relieve abdominal muscle tension and promote relaxation, supporting digestive comfort.
• Fitness training: When appropriate, structured exercise helps maintain healthy weight and digestive function.

This integration means you’re not just treated for diverticulitis once; you’re supported to build long-term habits that protect your digestive health.

Coordinated care for both body and mind

Diverticulitis doesn’t only affect your gut — it can affect your sleep, mood, and confidence around eating. That’s why CARESPACE ensures mental health support is built into your plan.

For instance, after a painful flare-up, you might experience insomnia or food-related anxiety. Our psychotherapists and mental performance coaches work alongside nutritionists to help you rebuild a healthy, confident relationship with food. At the same time, gentle exercise programs designed by our physiotherapists and kinesiologists can boost mood and restore energy.

This mind-body integration helps reduce stress, which is known to worsen digestive issues, and gives you practical tools for resilience in daily life.

What does a typical CARESPACE care journey for diverticulitis look like?

Every person’s experience is different, but here’s how a coordinated recovery journey might unfold:

• Acute phase: After diagnosis, your care may begin with nutritional guidance to rest your digestive system and reduce irritation. If pain or muscle tension is present, massage therapy or acupuncture may provide relief.
• Subacute phase: Once symptoms improve, physiotherapy and kinesiology help you gradually return to safe movement and activity. Nutrition experts guide you in reintroducing fiber and balanced foods.
• Maintenance phase: Psychotherapy, coaching, and fitness training help you manage stress, improve sleep, and maintain digestive-friendly routines to prevent recurrence.

By moving through each stage with coordinated support, you heal not only from the flare-up but also strengthen your body and mind against future episodes.

The CARESPACE advantage for diverticulitis

The unique advantage of CARESPACE lies in our ability to connect multiple disciplines under one coordinated plan. Instead of treating only symptoms, we support your overall health with:

• Evidence-based care: Every recommendation is backed by research and clinical guidelines.
• Personalized planning: Your care is tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.
• Faster recovery: Integrated therapies work together to reduce pain, restore function, and rebuild confidence.
• Lower recurrence risk: By addressing diet, exercise, stress, and mental health, we help prevent future flare-ups.

This holistic, team-based model sets CARESPACE apart from standard care, where you might see separate providers who don’t coordinate. Here, every professional is part of your healing journey.

Related Conditions, FAQs, and Disclaimer for Diverticulitis

Related Conditions for Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis often overlaps with or mimics other digestive conditions, which can make diagnosis and management more complex. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), for example, shares common symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Unlike diverticulitis, IBS does not involve infection or inflammation of diverticula, but the discomfort can feel similar.

Another related condition is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These are chronic autoimmune conditions that cause ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract. While diverticulitis usually involves sudden flare-ups, IBD tends to follow a long-term, relapsing pattern.

Other gastrointestinal issues like colorectal cancer, appendicitis, or even urinary tract infections can sometimes mimic diverticulitis pain, especially when located in the lower abdomen. Because of this, proper diagnosis is essential.

If you’re experiencing persistent abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or unexplained changes in digestion, you should seek medical care to rule out these overlapping conditions. To learn more, visit our Conditions List.