Diverticulitis

Table of Contents

Other names

Diverticular Disease (with inflammation)
Inflamed Diverticula
Colonic Diverticulitis
Acute Diverticulitis

Synopsis

Diverticulitis is the inflammation or infection of diverticula, which are small, bulging pouches that can form in the lining of the colon (large intestine)—a condition called diverticulosis. When these pouches become clogged with waste, bacteria multiply, leading to painful inflammation or infection. Diverticulitis can cause sudden abdominal pain, usually in the lower left side, along with fever, bloating, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.

It ranges from mild, uncomplicated cases that can be treated at home with diet and rest, to severe cases involving abscesses, perforation, or peritonitis, which may require hospitalization or surgery.

Types of Diverticulitis:

  • Uncomplicated Diverticulitis: Localized inflammation without serious complications.

  • Complicated Diverticulitis: May involve abscesses, fistulas, bowel obstruction, or perforation.

  • Chronic Diverticulitis: Recurrent inflammation or persistent symptoms between acute episodes.

Common Causes and Risk Factors:

  • Aging (risk increases significantly after age 40)

  • Low-fiber diet (leading to increased colon pressure)

  • Obesity

  • Smoking

  • Physical inactivity

  • Frequent use of NSAIDs

  • Chronic constipation

  • Gut dysbiosis (imbalanced gut microbiota)

Severity Factors:

  • Mild cases often resolve with rest and dietary changes

  • Severe or recurrent cases may require antibiotics, hospitalization, or surgery

  • Repeated inflammation can cause scar tissue, increasing risk of bowel obstruction or chronic symptoms

  • Perforated diverticula can cause life-threatening peritonitis

When to See a Doctor:

  • Sudden, severe, or persistent abdominal pain (especially lower left)

  • Fever, chills, or signs of infection

  • Nausea, vomiting, or inability to pass stool/gas

  • Blood in stool or signs of internal bleeding

  • Recurrent or chronic digestive discomfort

Natural Remedies

Clear liquid diet initially: Broth, water, herbal teas, and electrolyte drinks during flare-up

Gradual return to low-fiber foods: Once symptoms ease (white rice, cooked carrots, white bread)

Resume high-fiber diet when stable: Oats, cooked vegetables, legumes (to prevent future attacks)

Hydration: Essential to keep stool soft and prevent pressure in the colon

Gentle movement: Encourages healthy gut motility

Avoid straining during bowel movements: Use stool softeners if necessary

Probiotics: Help restore gut flora after inflammation or antibiotics

Stress management: Chronic stress can impair gut-brain axis function