Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis

If you’ve been told you have diverticulosis or are dealing with sudden lower abdominal pain, you may be wondering what it means and when it becomes serious. 

Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are related conditions that affect the colon. One is common and often harmless. The other can be painful and may require treatment. 

Understanding the difference can help you manage symptoms and know when to seek care. 

What is the difference between diverticulosis and diverticulitis? 

• Diverticulosis: Small pouches (diverticula) form in the wall of the colon. Often causes no symptoms. 
• Diverticulitis: These pouches become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and other symptoms. 

Many people have diverticulosis and never develop diverticulitis. But having diverticulosis increases your risk. 

What is diverticulosis? 

Diverticulosis occurs when weak spots in the colon wall bulge outward, forming small pouches. 

It is very common, especially with age, and is often found during routine tests like a colonoscopy. 

Most people have no symptoms, but some may experience: 

• Mild cramping 
• Bloating 
• Constipation or diarrhea 
• Discomfort in the lower abdomen 

What causes diverticulosis and who is at risk? 

Diverticulosis develops over time due to pressure in the colon. 

Risk factors include: 

• Age over 50 
• Low-fiber diet 
• High intake of red meat 
• Obesity 
• Physical inactivity 
• Smoking 
• Use of NSAIDs, steroids or opioids 
• Family history 

How is diverticulosis treated? 

If you have diverticulosis without symptoms, treatment focuses on prevention. 

Recommended lifestyle changes: 

• Eat a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) 
• Drink plenty of water 
• Exercise regularly 
• Maintain a healthy weight 
• Avoid smoking 

These steps help reduce pressure in the colon and lower the risk of diverticulitis. 

What is diverticulitis? 

Diverticulitis happens when one or more pouches become inflamed or infected. 

This can cause sudden and sometimes severe symptoms. 

What are the symptoms of diverticulitis? 

Common diverticulitis symptoms include: 

• Sudden, constant pain (often in the lower left abdomen) 
• Fever 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea) 
• Bloating 

More serious symptoms may include: 

• Blood in stool 
• Severe tenderness or a rigid abdomen 
• Weakness 

When should you seek medical care for diverticulitis? 

Get medical care right away if you have: 

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain 
• Fever of 100.4°F or higher 
• Persistent nausea or vomiting 
• Inability to keep fluids down 
• Sudden changes in bowel habits 

These may be signs of infection or complications that need urgent care. 

What triggers diverticulitis? 

The exact cause isn’t always clear, but possible triggers include: 

• Stool or bacteria getting trapped in a pouch 
• Changes in gut bacteria (microbiome) 
• Increased pressure in the colon 
• Inflammation 

Lifestyle factors like low fiber intake and inactivity may increase risk. 

How is diverticulitis diagnosed? 

Your provider may: 

• Review your symptoms and medical history 
• Perform a physical exam 
• Order imaging tests such as a CT scan 
• Check blood tests for infection 

A colonoscopy may be recommended after recovery to rule out other conditions. 

How is diverticulitis treated? 

Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are. 

Mild (uncomplicated) diverticulitis 

• Rest 
• Acetaminophen for pain 
• Antibiotics (in some cases) 
• Temporary liquid or low-fiber diet 

Severe (complicated) diverticulitis 

• Hospital care with IV antibiotics 
• IV fluids 
• Possible procedures to drain abscesses 
• Surgery in rare cases 

What can you eat with diverticulitis? 

During a flare: 

• Start with clear liquids (broth, water, ice pops) 
• Gradually add low-fiber foods 

After recovery: 

• Transition to a high-fiber diet to help prevent future flare-ups 

What are the possible complications of diverticulitis? 

Untreated diverticulitis can lead to serious complications: 

• Abscess (collection of pus) 
• Perforation (tear in the colon) 
• Peritonitis (infection in the abdomen) 
• Fistula (abnormal connections between organs) 
• Intestinal blockage 

These conditions may require emergency care or surgery. 

How can you prevent diverticulitis? 

You can lower your risk by: 

• Eating more fiber 
• Staying hydrated 
• Exercising regularly 
• Avoiding smoking 
• Maintaining a healthy weight 

Living with diverticular disease 

With the right care, many people manage diverticulosis and avoid complications. 

Ongoing follow-up with your provider can help: 

• Monitor symptoms 
• Adjust treatment 
• Prevent flare-ups 

Care you can trust 

At Banner Health, our gastroenterology specialists provide advanced care for diverticulosis and diverticulitis. 

We offer personalized treatment plans, nutrition guidance and minimally invasive procedures when needed. 

Find a Banner Health specialist near you to get care and relief. 

Frequently asked questions 

Is diverticulosis serious? 

Not usually. Many people have no symptoms and never develop complications. 

Can diverticulitis go away on its own? 

Mild cases may improve, but medical evaluation is important to prevent complications. 

Does diverticulitis always cause pain on the left side? 

Most often, yes, but pain can vary depending on the location. 

Can diet prevent diverticulitis? 

A high-fiber diet can help lower your risk. 

Bottom line 

Diverticulosis is common and often harmless, but diverticulitis can cause serious symptoms and complications. Knowing the difference, recognizing warning signs and making healthy lifestyle choices can help protect your digestive health.