Stabbing Gut Pain? Why Diverticulitis Flares & Your Relief Plan

A sudden, stabbing pain in your lower belly can be alarming. If it's persistent, sharp, and centered on the lower left side of your abdomen, diverticulitis could be the cause.

Diverticulitis is common, especially in adults over 40. While it can be painful and sometimes serious, it is also treatable — and many people recover fully with the right care.

Let's break down what diverticulitis is, why it flares, and what you can do to feel better.

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What Is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis happens when small pouches in the colon — called diverticula — become inflamed or infected.

These pouches are common, especially as we age. Simply having them is called diverticulosis, and many people never have symptoms. But when one or more pouches become inflamed, that's when diverticulitis occurs.

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What Does Diverticulitis Pain Feel Like?

The most common symptom is:

• Sharp or stabbing pain, usually in the lower left abdomen
• Pain that gets worse over hours or days
• Tenderness when you press on the area

Other symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite

The pain often feels constant rather than crampy. Some people describe it as a deep, steady ache with sudden stabbing sensations.

If the pain is severe, spreading, or accompanied by high fever, that can signal a complication — and you should seek medical care immediately.

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Why Does Diverticulitis Flare Up?

Diverticulitis flares occur when a diverticulum becomes blocked or irritated. While the exact cause isn't always clear, several factors increase risk:

1. Low Fiber Intake

A diet low in fiber can lead to harder stools and more pressure inside the colon. Over time, this pressure may contribute to pouch formation and inflammation.

2. Aging

The colon wall naturally weakens with age, making diverticula more common.

3. Changes in Gut Bacteria

Shifts in gut bacteria may contribute to inflammation during a diverticulitis flare.

4. Obesity

Higher body weight is linked to increased risk of diverticulitis and more severe episodes.

5. Smoking

Smoking is associated with higher complication rates.

6. Physical Inactivity

Regular movement helps maintain healthy bowel function.

It's important to note: older advice suggested avoiding nuts, seeds, and popcorn. Current research does not support that restriction for most people.

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Is Diverticulitis Dangerous?

Most cases are uncomplicated, meaning inflammation is limited and responds well to treatment.

However, complications can occur, including:

• Abscess (a pocket of infection)
• Bowel obstruction
• Perforation (a tear in the colon wall)
• Peritonitis (serious abdominal infection)

These complications are uncommon but serious. That's why worsening pain, high fever, confusion, or rigid abdomen should be treated as emergencies.

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How Is Diverticulitis Diagnosed?

Doctors typically diagnose diverticulitis using:

• A physical exam
• Blood tests (to check for infection)
• CT scan of the abdomen (most accurate test)

Because symptoms can overlap with appendicitis, kidney stones, or other conditions, imaging is often necessary.

If you're experiencing lower abdominal pain and aren't sure what's causing it, Ubie's free AI-powered Diverticulitis symptom checker can help you understand whether your symptoms align with diverticulitis and guide you on whether urgent care is needed.

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Treatment for Diverticulitis

Treatment depends on how severe the flare is.

Mild (Uncomplicated) Diverticulitis

Many mild cases can be treated at home with:

• Rest
• Clear liquid diet for a few days
• Gradual return to low-fiber foods
• Pain control (as advised by a doctor)

Some patients may need antibiotics, though recent research shows that not all uncomplicated cases require them.

Moderate to Severe Diverticulitis

You may need:

• Prescription antibiotics
• CT imaging
• Close monitoring
• Possible hospitalization

Complicated Cases

If abscess or perforation occurs:

• IV antibiotics
• Drainage procedures
• Surgery (in some cases)

Surgery is typically reserved for recurrent or complicated diverticulitis.

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Your Relief Plan: What You Can Do Now

If you're in the middle of a flare and under medical supervision, focus on recovery.

During a Flare

• Follow your doctor's dietary instructions carefully.
• Stay hydrated.
• Rest your body.
• Monitor for worsening symptoms.

Do not ignore increasing pain, high fever, or vomiting.

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After Recovery: Preventing Future Flares

Prevention is key with diverticulitis.

Once inflammation has resolved, most doctors recommend:

✅ Increase Fiber Gradually

Aim for 25–30 grams per day through:

• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Whole grains
• Legumes

Add fiber slowly to avoid bloating.

✅ Drink Plenty of Water

Fiber works best when paired with hydration.

✅ Exercise Regularly

Even brisk walking 30 minutes most days can help.

✅ Maintain a Healthy Weight

Weight reduction lowers recurrence risk.

✅ Avoid Smoking

Smoking increases complication risk.

✅ Follow Up With Your Doctor

A colonoscopy is often recommended several weeks after recovery to rule out other conditions.

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When to Seek Immediate Care

Call a doctor or go to the emergency room if you have:

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• High fever (over 101°F / 38.3°C)
• Persistent vomiting
• Fainting
• Confusion
• Rigid or board-like abdomen
• Blood in stool

These symptoms could indicate a serious complication.

Do not delay medical care in these cases.

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Living With Diverticulitis

Many people who experience one episode of diverticulitis never have another. Others may have occasional flares spaced years apart.

The good news:

• Most cases are manageable.
• Serious complications are uncommon with proper treatment.
• Lifestyle changes can significantly reduce recurrence risk.

The key is listening to your body and acting early if symptoms return.

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Final Thoughts

Stabbing gut pain should never be ignored. While diverticulitis is a common and treatable cause, it can become serious if left untreated.

If you're uncertain about your symptoms or want to better understand whether they could be diverticulitis, try Ubie's free AI-powered Diverticulitis symptom checker for personalized insights in just a few minutes.

Most importantly, speak to a doctor about any persistent, severe, or concerning abdominal pain. Conditions affecting the abdomen can become life-threatening if ignored.

Prompt care leads to better outcomes — and relief.

Your gut health matters.