Most attacks of diverticulitis settle without surgery.

Persistent pain typically occurs in the lower left abdomen, though some patients experience pain on the right side. The pain often intensifies over several days and may worsen with movement. In Singapore right-sided pouches are the more common kind, so pain low on the right deserves the same attention here as pain low on the left, and should not be dismissed because overseas patient information describes this as a left-sided condition.

Body temperature may rise above 38°C, indicating the presence of infection. This commonly appears alongside other digestive discomfort.

These symptoms often accompany severe abdominal pain and may affect eating habits. Some patients experience loss of appetite for several days.

Patients may experience constipation or, less commonly, diarrhoea. These changes can last several days to weeks.

The abdomen may become distended and feel tender to touch. This discomfort often increases after eating.

Some patients notice bright red blood in their stool or on toilet paper. Bleeding is more characteristic of the pouches themselves bleeding than of the inflammation, and the two are treated differently, so it is worth reporting as its own problem rather than folding it into an attack. Either way, this symptom requires prompt medical attention to determine its cause.

Oral or intravenous antibiotics target bacterial infection. Where they are needed, treatment duration typically ranges from 7 to 14 days, depending on symptom severity, and the medication type and delivery method depend on infection severity and patient factors. Not every attack needs them. Current gastroenterology guidance is to use antibiotics selectively rather than routinely in otherwise healthy patients with mild uncomplicated disease, and to use them without hesitation where a patient is immunocompromised.

A clear liquid diet allows bowel rest during acute episodes. Gradual reintroduction of solid foods occurs as symptoms improve, with emphasis on high-fibre foods once inflammation resolves. This process typically takes 2 to 3 days.

Over-the-counter or prescription medications help control abdominal pain. These medications are used temporarily until acute symptoms subside, and the choice depends on pain severity and patient tolerance. Anti-inflammatory painkillers are the exception worth knowing about. Current guidance is to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs where possible, aside from aspirin prescribed to protect the heart, so pain relief here is worth choosing with the doctor rather than off a pharmacy shelf.

This involves removing the affected sections of the colon using either traditional or laparoscopic surgery. It is typically performed for recurring episodes or complications such as fistulas or strictures. The choice of surgical technique depends on the extent of the disease and individual patient factors. Current guidance is that elective surgery should not be advised on the number of past episodes alone, but decided case by case against severity, symptoms and what the patient wants.

After removing the diseased portion of the colon, the healthy sections are reconnected. Recovery usually requires 4 to 6 weeks of limited activity. The success of the procedure depends on the condition of the tissues and the surgical method used.

In severe cases or when complications arise, a temporary opening (stoma) is created in the abdomen to divert waste. This is usually reversible, with closure performed after the affected area has healed. The colostomy is generally in place for three months to a year.

The risk increases for individuals over 50 years as the intestinal walls naturally weaken with age. The prevalence rises significantly in those over 65 years old.

Regular consumption of low-fibre foods increases pressure within the colon, leading to diverticula formation. This risk factor is particularly common in Western diets.

Excess weight places additional strain on the digestive system and increases inflammation risk. A BMI over 30 particularly correlates with higher incidence.

Lack of regular physical activity affects bowel motility and overall digestive health. Extended periods of inactivity can worsen symptoms.

Regular tobacco use weakens intestinal walls and increases inflammation risk throughout the body. Smokers often experience more severe symptoms during flare-ups.