Diverticulitis

Diverticula are small pouches in the bowel wall. They are very common after 50 and usually cause no trouble. Diverticulitis is when one becomes inflamed, typically causing pain low on the left side of the tummy, fever and a change in bowel habit. Most attacks are mild and settle at home.

Treatment options

Ratings show how strong the research is.

• Strong evidenceHospital treatmentFor severe pain, vomiting or a complication such as an abscess: antibiotics and fluids through a drip, and sometimes drainage.
• Moderate evidenceRest, fluids and pain reliefFor mild attacks: paracetamol, plus clear fluids or a light, low-fibre diet for a few days until the pain eases. Then return to normal food.
• Moderate evidenceNo antibiotics for mild attacksTrials and a Cochrane review found many mild, uncomplicated attacks recover just as well without antibiotics, if you are otherwise well and complications have been ruled out.
• Moderate evidenceAntibiotics when neededUsed if you are unwell or have a high fever, a weak immune system, other serious illness, or a complication.
• Moderate evidenceSurgeryFor complications, or frequent attacks that affect your life. Discuss the pros and cons with a surgeon.
• Limited evidenceHigh fibre after recoveryBuild up slowly to 25 to 30 g a day from vegetables, fruit, legumes and wholegrains. Linked to fewer attacks.
• Not recommendedAvoiding nuts, seeds and cornNo evidence they cause attacks. No need to cut them out.

What you can do

• Use paracetamol for pain. Avoid anti-inflammatories (such as ibuprofen) and codeine where you can, as they are linked to complications.
• Drink plenty of water when you increase fibre.
• Stay active, keep a healthy weight and don’t smoke: all linked to fewer attacks.
• After an attack, your doctor may suggest a colonoscopy if you haven’t had one recently.

See your GP if

• You have lower tummy pain with fever or a change in bowel habit
• You’re not improving after 2 to 3 days, or are getting worse
• You notice blood from the bottom or weight loss you can’t explain

Go to the emergency department for severe or worsening tummy pain, a hard, tender tummy, ongoing vomiting, high fever, heavy bleeding, or feeling faint.

Evidence and more information

• Healthdirect: Diverticular disease
• Cochrane: Antibiotics for uncomplicated diverticulitis
• AAFP: Summary of the Cochrane review

Reviewed October 2026. General education, not personal medical advice. Treatment depends on your situation, so talk to your GP or pharmacist.

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