Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I am a 70 yr. old female just recovering from a respiratory type flu . However, I have also had pain in my stomach area. I have confirmed diverticulosis , but am wondering if I may have diverticulitis now. The pain is in the area of the transverse colon, not the descending, has spread a bit to my back, and is kind of low-grade pain. I really don t know if it might actually be in the stomach, but I don t think so. It gets worse if I try to eat, so I have not been eating much for the last six days. The flu is much better, but the stomach pain is not going away. No cramping, no diarrhea, no fever, no nausea or vomiting. Is there a simple, but definitive test for diverticulitis infection? I live in a remote area and called a clinic 40 miles away and the nurse said the only way to confirm is a barium enema . This does not sound logical to me.
[|AI|]  Hi, Welcome to Chat Doctor Forum. Diverticulitis occurs when the diverticula in your digestive tract become infected. Diverticula are bulging pouches that can form in your digestive system, including your esophagus, stomach, small intestine or large intestine. Are your Bowels habits regular? Get yourself evaluated further by a Gastroenterologist to rule out appendicitis, IBS, PID. A CT scan would be a better option for your Doctor to come to a final Diagnosis. IF Diverticulitis is confirmed you may need a Surgery. If your symptoms are mild, a liquid or low-fiber diet and antibiotics may be all you need. Chat Doctor.  All The Best, Take Care.