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Clinical emergency room medical reference guide at Memorial Springs ER in Spring TX
Nov 08, 20263 min read

What Is Diverticulitis?

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Man in a white t-shirt and plaid pajama pants sits on the edge of a bed, wincing and holding his lower abdomen

Pain in the lower left side of your belly, especially when it comes with fever and nausea, can have many causes. One of the most common in adults over 40 is diverticulitis. So, what is diverticulitis? It is a condition where small pouches in the wall of your colon become inflamed or infected, causing pain and other digestive symptoms.

Many cases of diverticulitis are mild and can be treated at home. But it can also lead to serious complications that need emergency treatment. If your abdominal pain is severe and you are searching for an "ER near me," Memorial Springs ER in Spring, TX, is open 24/7.

Diverticulosis vs. Diverticulitis

These two terms sound alike, but they mean different things.

  • Diverticulosis: small, bulging pouches called diverticula form in the wall of the colon. This is very common with age, and most people never have symptoms.
  • Diverticulitis: one or more of these pouches becomes inflamed or infected, causing symptoms.

According to the NIDDK, about 35% of U.S. adults ages 50 or younger have diverticulosis, and about 58% of adults older than 60 have it. Only a small percentage develop diverticulitis.

What Causes Diverticulitis?

Doctors are not entirely sure why diverticula become inflamed. It may happen when stool or bacteria get trapped in a pouch, or when the wall of a pouch tears slightly. Risk factors include:

  • Getting older.
  • A low-fiber diet high in red meat.
  • Obesity.
  • Lack of physical activity.
  • Smoking.
  • Certain medicines, such as NSAIDs, steroids, and opioids.
  • Genetics.

Common Symptoms of Diverticulitis

The most common symptom is pain, usually on the lower left side of the abdomen. In some people, especially those of Asian descent, the pain may be on the right side. Other symptoms include:

  • Fever and chills.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Constipation or, less often, diarrhea.
  • Bloating.
  • Tenderness when you press on your belly.
  • Constant pain that lasts several days.

Possible Complications

Without treatment, diverticulitis can lead to:

  • Abscess: a pocket of pus that may need to be drained.
  • Perforation: a tear in the colon wall that can spill contents into the abdomen.
  • Peritonitis: a life-threatening infection of the abdominal lining.
  • Fistula: an abnormal connection between the colon and another organ, such as the bladder.
  • Bowel obstruction: a blockage of the colon, often caused by scarring.

When to Go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the ER right away if you have:

  • Severe or worsening abdominal pain.
  • A fever above 100.4°F with belly pain.
  • Vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down.
  • Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding.
  • A hard, rigid belly that is painful to touch.
  • Being unable to pass gas or have a bowel movement.

Abdominal pain can be caused by many conditions, including appendicitis, kidney stones, and gallbladder problems, so it is important to get the right diagnosis. Visiting an ER for abdominal pain gives you access to imaging and lab testing in one place.

How Diverticulitis Is Diagnosed

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine your abdomen. A CT scan is the most common test to confirm diverticulitis and check for complications. Blood tests can show signs of infection, and a urine test may help rule out a urinary tract infection or kidney stone.

Treatment Options

How Mild Diverticulitis Is Treated

Mild cases are often treated at home with rest and a clear liquid diet for a few days, then a slow return to solid foods. Some patients need antibiotics, though recent guidelines say not every mild case requires them.

How Severe Diverticulitis Is Treated

More serious cases may require a hospital stay, IV antibiotics, IV fluids, and pain control. Abscesses may need to be drained, and some patients need surgery to remove the affected part of the colon.

If you have ongoing digestive symptoms after treatment, follow up with your primary care doctor or a gastroenterologist.

Can You Prevent Diverticulitis?

  • Eat a high-fiber diet with fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Talk to your doctor before taking NSAIDs such as ibuprofen regularly.

Emergency Care for Severe Abdominal Pain in Spring, TX

Diverticulitis is common, but severe pain or fever should never be brushed off. Memorial Springs ER in Spring, TX, has on-site CT scans, labs, and short wait times for patients throughout Spring, Klein, Tomball, The Woodlands, and North Houston.

Our Spring emergency room is staffed around the clock, so help is available whenever belly pain gets worse. A CT scan and blood tests can confirm the cause and check for complications in one visit. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Eat Nuts and Seeds If I Have Diverticulitis?

Yes. Older advice said to avoid them, but research has not found that nuts, seeds, or popcorn cause diverticulitis.

How Long Does a Diverticulitis Flare-Up Last?

Mild flare-ups often improve within a few days to a week with treatment.

Can Diverticulitis Come Back?

Yes. Some people have repeat episodes. A high-fiber diet and healthy lifestyle may lower the risk.

Is Diverticulitis Dangerous?

Most cases are not, but complications such as perforation and peritonitis are medical emergencies.