This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
What is diverticular disease and diverticulitis?
Diverticular disease is a condition where small pouches (diverticula) form in the wall of the large intestine, often as people get older. Many people have no symptoms, but some experience pain in the lower left side of the tummy that gets worse after eating and better after passing stool or wind, along with constipation, diarrhoea, or blood in the stool. When the pouches become infected or inflamed, it is called diverticulitis and causes more severe, constant tummy pain along with a high temperature.
When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP
- You have blood or mucus in your stool
- You have severe, constant tummy pain
- You have a high temperature or feel hot, cold, or shivery
- You keep vomiting and cannot keep fluids down
- You have diarrhoea for more than 7 days
- You have bleeding from your bottom that will not stop
Self-care information from NHS
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
- Slowly increase fibre in your diet — sudden increases can cause bloating
- Drink plenty of water, especially when increasing fibre
- Stop smoking if you smoke
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and opioid painkillers (like codeine) — they can worsen symptoms
Common questions
What foods should I avoid with diverticulitis?
NHS guidance does not recommend specific foods to avoid. A high-fibre diet is generally advised. During a flare-up of diverticulitis, your GP may suggest a temporary low-fibre or liquid diet until symptoms settle.
What is the difference between diverticulosis, diverticular disease, and diverticulitis?
Diverticulosis means having pouches without symptoms. Diverticular disease means having symptoms from them. Diverticulitis means the pouches have become infected or inflamed and need treatment.
Can diverticulitis be cured?
Mild diverticulitis often gets better with rest, a liquid diet, and sometimes antibiotics. The pouches themselves don't go away, so symptoms may recur. Surgery is rarely needed except in complicated cases.
Is diverticular disease serious?
Most people with diverticular disease have mild symptoms that can be managed with diet. Complications like severe infection, perforation, or blockage are rare but need urgent treatment.
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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.