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Concerned about symptoms?
Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.
Secretary
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Colonoscopy
Abdominal Pain
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TRUSTED INFORMATION
National health information service, diverticular disease guidance.
What is diverticulitis?
Inflammation of small pouches in the bowel wall. Most cases settle well with the right treatment.
Diverticulitis symptoms become more common as people get older. Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, in the bowel wall become inflamed or infected. It causes abdominal pain and other symptoms, and is most common in people over 50.
Recurrent or complicated diverticulitis calls for real experience with complex lower bowel conditions. Dr Kejariwal brings this to patients across Newcastle, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland.
Causes and risk factors
Diverticula are thought to form from increased pressure within the bowel over time. A low-fibre diet is often linked. They become more common with age (NHS inform, 2026), affecting more than half of people over 70.
Symptoms
- Pain in the lower left side of the abdomen
- Fever
- A change in bowel habit, including constipation or diarrhoea
- Bloating and nausea
When to seek help: Get prompt medical attention for severe pain, high fever, or an inability to pass stools or wind.
How is diverticulitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is often based on symptoms and examination. A CT scan may support this during an acute episode. A colonoscopy confirms the diagnosis once symptoms settle.
What are the treatment options?
Mild diverticulitis is usually treated with antibiotics, dietary changes, and rest. More severe cases may need hospital admission or, rarely, surgery. Dr Kejariwal advises a long-term diet to help reduce further episodes.
Living with diverticulitis in 2026
Most people with diverticula never have symptoms. Even those who develop diverticulitis usually respond well to antibiotics and diet, without needing surgery. A high-fibre diet is generally recommended once symptoms settle.
Self-care and prevention
Follow a high-fibre diet between flares, and stay well hydrated. Remain physically active and avoid smoking. During an acute flare, a temporarily lower-fibre diet is often recommended.
What happens at your appointment?
You meet Dr Kejariwal at Cobalt Hospital for a full consultation. He reviews your symptoms, history, and any past tests. He explains what he thinks is happening in plain English. Together you agree a clear next step, whether that means more tests, starting treatment, or simple monitoring. A written summary goes to you and your GP after every visit. Most patients are seen within one to two weeks, and urgent concerns are prioritised.
When to see a specialist
See a specialist for persistent or recurrent lower abdominal pain, particularly with fever or a change in bowel habit.
Frequently asked questions about diverticulitis
What is the difference between diverticular disease and diverticulitis?
Diverticular disease means having diverticula, often with no symptoms. Diverticulitis is when they become inflamed or infected.
Does diverticulitis increase the risk of bowel cancer?
No, having diverticula does not raise your bowel cancer risk, though symptoms can overlap, so proper assessment matters.
Do I need to avoid nuts and seeds if I have diverticular disease?
Current guidance no longer recommends avoiding these. A high-fibre diet is generally encouraged instead.
Can diverticulitis recur after treatment?
Yes, particularly with multiple diverticula, though a high-fibre diet and healthy lifestyle can reduce how often it happens.