Diverticulitis is a condition in which pouches (diverticula) that form in the wall of the large intestine (colon) become inflamed or infected. Symptoms can include pain, fever, and other signs of infection and may last from a few hours to several days.

Diverticulitis is usually treated with a liquid diet, antibiotics for infection, and pain relievers. Hospitalization or even surgery to remove the diseased part of the colon may be needed if complications such as an abscess or peritonitis develop or if repeated attacks are not helped by other treatment.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology
Last Revised	July 26, 2010