Review symptoms: left lower abdominal pain, fever, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, bloating
Take a medical history, including prior diverticulitis, diverticulosis, and bowel changes
Perform a physical examination, including abdominal tenderness and guarding
Order blood tests, including white blood cell count and inflammatory markers
Order urine tests to rule out urinary causes of pain
Use a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast as the main diagnostic test
Consider ultrasound or MRI if CT is not suitable
Avoid colonoscopy during an acute episode unless specifically indicated
Review imaging for inflamed diverticula, bowel wall thickening, abscess, perforation, or fistula
Assess severity and complications based on symptoms, exam, labs, and imaging
Seek urgent evaluation if severe pain, high fever, vomiting, or signs of peritonitis are present