Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis

When To Call A Professional

Call your doctor if abdominal pain in one spot lasts for longer than a few hours, especially if it becomes worse or is accompanied by fever.

Prognosis

With proper treatment and a high-fiber diet, the outlook for people with diverticulosis and uncomplicated diverticulitis is excellent. Most people with diverticulosis never have symptoms. People who are hospitalized for diverticulitis, usually improve within two to four days after treatment begins. Up to 85% of patients recover with bed rest, liquid diet and antibiotics, and most never have a second episode of diverticulitis. The prognosis varies if complications develop and is particularly serious in the case of peritonitis. About 90% of people who have a colon resection do not have symptoms return after the surgery.

Additional Info

National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Disorders Office of Communications and Public Liaison Building 31, Room 9A04 31 Center Drive, MSC 2560 Bethesda, MD 20892-2560 Phone: (301) 496-4000 E-Mail: niddk_inquiries@nih.gov http://www.niddk.nih.gov/