What is diverticulitis?
Diverticula are small pockets, or pouches, that form in the wall of the intestine. Diverticulosis refers to the presence of one or more diverticula in the intestine. About 30 percent of Americans over 60 years old have diverticulosis. A person with diverticulitis has inflammation of one or more diverticula, usually caused by infection. The swelling and irritation to the diverticulum can cause abdominal pain and bleeding from the intestine. Most people with diverticulitis respond well to treatment.

What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?
Symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain that is usually located in the lower left abdomen. Other symptoms include anorexia, fever, constipation, and rectal bleeding.

How does the doctor treat diverticulitis?
Treatment of mild diverticulitis includes a clear liquid diet, antibiotics, antispasmodic medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain. A small number will benefit from surgery.