US Medical Term · conditions
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Diverticulitis |
| Spanish (Español) | Diverticulitis |
| Chinese (中文) | 憩室炎 |
| Korean (한국어) | 게실염 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Viêm túi thừa |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Diverticulitis |
| Portuguese (Português) | Diverticulite |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ไส้ใหญ่อักเสบจากถุงยื่น |
| Japanese (日本語) | 憩室炎 |
What it means
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches called diverticula that have formed in the walls of the colon become inflamed or infected. These pouches commonly form in areas of weakness in the colon wall, often later in life. Symptoms include sudden abdominal pain usually in the lower left side, fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. Mild cases are treated with antibiotics, rest, and a clear liquid diet. Severe cases or complications such as abscess, perforation, or fistula may require hospitalization and surgery. A high-fiber diet after recovery may help prevent future episodes. Colonoscopy is recommended after recovery to rule out other conditions.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have severe pain in my lower left abdomen and was told I may have diverticulitis.
Tengo un dolor intenso en la parte inferior izquierda del abdomen y me dijeron que podría tener diverticulitis.
Do I need to be hospitalized or can I treat my diverticulitis at home with antibiotics?
¿Necesito ser hospitalizado o puedo tratar mi diverticulitis en casa con antibióticos?
What dietary changes can I make to prevent future diverticulitis flare-ups?
¿Qué cambios en la dieta puedo hacer para prevenir futuros episodios de diverticulitis?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
K57 Diverticular disease of intestineRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026