• Severe inflammation of the pouches in the large intestine
• Symptoms may include abdominal pain that often occurs suddenly in the left lower area, fever, change in bowel habits and anorexia
• Cause commonly occurs when undigested pieces of food collect in the pouches
• Cannot be spread from person to person
• Affects males and females
• Can occur at any age but more common in middle age to elderly adults
• May be mild to severe
• May be life threatening if infection develops

• Increase your fiber intake
• Increase your fluid intake
• Exercise regularly
• Have a bowel movement as soon as you feel the urge

FOR PAIN

• Apply hot or cold packs to the area
• Relaxation techniques
• Distraction
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen