The symptoms of diverticulitis depend on the degree of inflammation and the presence of any complications. Attacks can occur suddenly and without warning. However, diverticulitis may also come on gradually, with symptoms fluctuating in intensity.

The most common symptoms of diverticulitis are tenderness and pain, usually at or around the site of inflammation. The lower left part of the abdomen (the sigmoid colon) is a common area of pain and tenderness in patients with diverticulitis.

However, pain and tenderness may occur elsewhere in the abdomen depending on the location of the inflamed diverticula. The pain is usually severe but may range from mild cramping to severe pain that inhibits movement. It may come and go or remain constant, or there may be a constant pain with intermittent periods of increased pain.

Other signs and symptoms include:

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating
• Chills
• Dysuria (pain or difficulty when urinating)
• Increased frequency and urgency of urination
• Ileus (intestinal muscles do not move properly, causing a lack of bowel sounds)
• Increased white blood cell count
• Fever

Bleeding from the rectum is not usually associated with diverticulitis, but it may occur. Bleeding is more common when the sacs are not infected.

Patients who develop signs and symptoms of diverticulitis should contact their physician.