Diverticula are small pouches (bulges) that form in the walls of the large bowel. They are usually symptomless, but when they become inflamed or infected they cause diverticulitis, with sharp pain in the lower left abdomen, fever, nausea and a change in bowel movements.
How we approach it
Diagnosis and preventing complications is managed with appropriate antibiotic treatment during acute flare-ups, while colonoscopy is scheduled once the inflammation has settled, for a complete assessment of the bowel.
This information is for general guidance and does not replace personalised medical advice.