Q If I have diverticula, what symptoms require immediate emergency room or hospital care?
A Severe lower left abdominal pain, high fever, or bloody stool appearing suddenly require immediate emergency room care. Symptoms of suspected peritonitis (extreme pain when pressing the abdomen, abdominal wall becoming rigid) also require immediate internal medicine or surgical treatment.
Detailed Answer
Perforation, abscess, and peritonitis, which are complications of diverticulitis, require rapid treatment. The following symptoms require immediate hospital care: 1) Intolerable lower left abdominal pain suddenly worsening; 2) High fever above 38.5°C accompanying it; 3) Bright red bloody stool or large amounts of bloody stool; 4) Extreme pain when pressing the abdomen or abdominal wall rigidity suggesting peritonitis; 5) Nausea and vomiting accompanying abdominal distension. In such cases, immediate surgical and internal medical treatment takes priority over Korean medicine treatment.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Korean medicine treatment is safe to start in the stable course phase when there are no emergency signs and after mild diverticulitis recovery. If suspicious symptoms arise, go to the emergency room without hesitation first.
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