Your large bowel squeezes its contents along with rhythmic contractions called peristalsis . The bulkier its contents, the less squeezing is required to move them along. This pressure causes diverticuli to form. Pain in the left lower part of your abdomen, fever, and constipation, are the usual symptoms. Diarrhea and rectal bleeding can be others.
Prevention is sometimes possible.
If you are having symptoms that could be diverticulitis, you need to see a physician for diagnosis and treatment. Sometimes a cancer can produce the same symptoms, so a careful evaluation is important. Points to remember Pain in the left lower part of the abdomen, accompanied by fever and constipation, should prompt you to call a physician. Simple treatment is usually effective, but preventing recurrent attacks may require surgery. You can sometimes prevent diverticulitis by a change in your diet.