What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that happens when small, pouch-like structures called diverticula form in the digestive tract and become infected or inflamed.
Symptoms of diverticulitis
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
- Change in bowel habits
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Rectal bleeding
Treatment
Not all cases of diverticulitis require surgery. If you are generally in good health and the inflammation or infection is not severe, treatments may include:
- Antibiotics
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- A clear liquid diet