Is pain in my lower left belly diverticulitis?

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What diverticulitis is

Many people develop small pouches (diverticula) in the wall of the colon with age, usually in the sigmoid colon on the lower left side. Having pouches is called diverticulosis and often causes no symptoms. Diverticulitis is when a pouch becomes inflamed or infected.

Typical symptoms of an attack

• Steady pain in the lower left belly that lasts more than a day
• Fever or chills
• Nausea, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea
• Tenderness when the area is pressed

Other causes

Constipation, gas, kidney stones, hernias and, in women, ovarian problems can cause pain in the same area. Bleeding or a change in bowel habits can also come from colon polyps or cancer, which is why a colonoscopy is commonly recommended after you recover from diverticulitis.

Treatment

Many attacks are treated without surgery, with rest, a liquid or low-fiber diet for a short time, and sometimes antibiotics. Surgery is considered for repeated attacks that affect your life or for complications such as an abscess, a narrowing or a fistula.

When to see a surgeon

• You have had more than one attack
• Pain that keeps coming back or never fully goes away
• An abscess, narrowing or fistula on a CT scan

Get urgent care: Go to the ER for severe or worsening pain, fever with belly pain, a swollen belly, persistent vomiting, or being unable to pass gas or stool.

Learn more: Colon & diverticulitis surgery

Talk with Dr. Tufts

Dr. Tufts is a minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon. To have your symptoms evaluated or talk through your options, call (941) 391-5102 to schedule a visit at Charlotte Harbor Surgical, 4245 Kings Hwy, Unit A, Port Charlotte, FL 33980. We see patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood, Cape Coral and North Fort Myers and across Southwest Florida.

Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Matthew Tufts, MD, FACS, a board-certified minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon in Port Charlotte, FL. Last reviewed 2026-11-11.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Every patient is different. Dr. Tufts will review your history, exam and test results with you and explain the options, benefits and risks that apply to you.