Sudden lower-left belly pain, a fever, and a change in bowel habits — that combo often points to diverticulitis. Diverticulitis happens when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon get inflamed or infected. Many people have diverticula without symptoms (that's diverticulosis). When those pouches become painful or infected, it becomes diverticulitis.
Common signs are steady pain in the lower left abdomen, fever, bloating, constipation or loose stools, and sometimes nausea. If you see bright red blood, have severe belly pain, a high fever, fainting, or trouble breathing, get urgent medical care — those could mean a serious complication like a perforation or large abscess.
At the clinic your doctor will listen to your symptoms, check your belly, and likely order blood tests and a CT scan. A CT scan is the most useful test to confirm diverticulitis and show how bad it is. Colonoscopy is usually avoided during an acute attack and scheduled later to rule out other problems.
Treatment depends on how bad the inflammation is. Mild cases are often handled at home: your doctor may suggest a short course of antibiotics, a few days of a low-residue or liquid diet to rest your bowel, and pain control. Rest and plenty of fluids help.
If symptoms are severe or complications appear (abscess, fistula, perforation, or repeated attacks), you may need hospitalization, IV antibiotics, drainage of an abscess, or surgery. Surgery removes the affected part of the colon and is considered when conservative care fails or complications threaten your health.
For pain, prefer acetaminophen unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen if possible — they can raise the risk of complications in some people. Follow your doctor’s instructions on medications and follow-up imaging or colonoscopy.
Want to manage a milder attack at home? Stick to clear liquids for 24–48 hours if recommended, then slowly add low-fiber foods. When you’re better, return to a high-fiber diet to help prevent future episodes.
Prevention is practical. Eat plenty of fiber from fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Try a fiber supplement like psyllium if you struggle to get enough. Drink water, stay active (30 minutes most days), avoid smoking, and keep a healthy weight. These steps reduce constipation and pressure inside the colon, which lowers the chance of inflamed pouches.
If you’ve had one episode, talk with your doctor about long-term plans — some people benefit from dietary counseling, while others need closer monitoring or surgery after repeated attacks. If you’re unsure what to do right now, call your healthcare provider — early treatment usually prevents complications and speeds recovery.
In the wild and wacky world of gut health, diverticulitis is a spicy little number that can cause a whole heap of trouble. Now, when it comes to dairy, it's like that ex who you're not sure if you should invite to your party or not. Some studies suggest dairy products can worsen diverticulitis symptoms, while others believe it can be beneficial. So, it's a real 'will they, won't they' scenario! Bottom line, folks: If your belly feels like a rock band is having a reunion tour every time you down a glass of milk, it might be time to rethink your relationship with dairy. It's not you, it's lactose!