what is the chance of getting diverticulitis if you have diverticulosis
The chance is low : about 5% of people with diverticulosis go on to develop diverticulitis, though some medical sources give a broader lifetime range of 4% to 25% depending on the population and study.
What that means
Diverticulosis means you have pouches in the colon, but most people never get symptoms from them. Diverticulitis is when one of those pouches becomes inflamed or infected.
Risk factors
Your risk is lower if you eat more fiber, stay active, keep a healthy weight, and don’t smoke. Some sources also note that red meat, smoking, and certain medicines such as ibuprofen, aspirin, opioids, and steroids may raise risk.
When to get checked
Seek medical care promptly if you have new lower-left belly pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, or worsening tenderness , since those can fit diverticulitis.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Chance of diverticulitis with diverticulosis | About 5% in one Mayo Clinic source; other references cite a broader 4% to 25% lifetime range. |
| Do most people get it? | No, most people with diverticulosis never develop diverticulitis. |
