Diverticulosis vs Diverticulitis
Diverticulosis means small pouches (diverticula) have formed in the colon wall — very common with age and usually symptomless, often found incidentally on colonoscopy. Diverticulitis is when one or more pouches become inflamed or infected, causing:
- Lower abdominal pain (typically left-sided)
- Fever and feeling unwell
- Change in bowel habit
- Sometimes bleeding
Treatment of Diverticulitis
- Mild attacks: Often managed with rest, fluids, dietary modification and antibiotics if indicated — sometimes as an outpatient.
- Moderate-to-severe attacks: Hospital admission for intravenous antibiotics, bowel rest and monitoring.
- Complications (abscess, perforation, obstruction, fistula): may need drainage or surgery.
When Surgery Is Needed
Surgery (removing the affected segment of colon) is considered for complicated diverticulitis, recurrent severe attacks, or complications such as a fistula or stricture. Increasingly this is done laparoscopically. A colorectal surgeon advises based on the pattern and severity of disease.
Diet & Prevention
A high-fibre diet, adequate fluids and regular exercise help keep the bowel healthy and may reduce flare-ups. Older advice to avoid nuts and seeds is no longer considered necessary for most people. After recovery from diverticulitis, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Browse colorectal surgeons →A mild outpatient episode (consultation, scan, antibiotics) may total a few hundred to ~S$1,500 privately. A hospital admission for IV antibiotics costs more; surgery for complications is typically S$15,000–S$30,000+. Subsidised rates apply at public hospitals, and treatment is Medisave/Shield-claimable where applicable.
Diverticulosis means harmless pouches have formed in the colon — usually symptomless and common with age. Diverticulitis is when those pouches become inflamed or infected, causing abdominal pain, fever and illness, and requiring treatment.
No. Most episodes of diverticulitis settle with rest, dietary changes and antibiotics where indicated. Surgery is reserved for complications (abscess, perforation, fistula, obstruction) or recurrent severe attacks. A colorectal surgeon advises on the need for surgery.
A high-fibre diet, good hydration and regular exercise support colon health and may reduce flare-ups. The old advice to avoid nuts and seeds is no longer considered necessary for most people. Your doctor can give individualised guidance.
General information only — not medical advice. Always verify a doctor’s SMC registration and discuss your individual circumstances with a qualified specialist.