Skip to content
Cartoon endoscope logoDoctor Kichian'sGastroenterology
Call
Lower GI

Diverticular Disease

Diverticula are small pouches that form in the colon wall. Most people never have symptoms, but occasionally they can bleed (diverticular bleeding) or become inflamed (diverticulitis).

Ask your family doctor to referSee related services

Symptoms

  • Often none (diverticulosis)
  • Diverticulitis: left lower abdominal pain, fever, altered bowel habits
  • Diverticular bleeding: painless, often significant red or maroon rectal bleeding

Possible causes

  • Aging and structural changes in the colon wall
  • Contributing factors: low-fiber diet, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco

How we diagnose

  • CT scan for suspected diverticulitis
  • Colonoscopy after resolution for surveillance and confirmation

Treatment options

  • Uncomplicated diverticulitis: often outpatient antibiotics or observation depending on severity
  • Hospitalization and IV therapy for complicated cases
  • Surgery in recurrent or complicated disease
  • Endoscopic or interventional radiology therapy for bleeding when needed

Lifestyle & prevention

  • High-fiber, whole-food dietary pattern
  • Regular physical activity and healthy weight
  • Individualized guidance — nuts and seeds are no longer restricted