Final answer:
Diverticula most commonly occur in the sigmoid colon, the S-shaped section of the large intestine. When these pouches become infected or inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis, which may require treatments including antibiotics and surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diverticula are pouches that can form in the wall of the large intestine, a condition known as diverticulosis. When one or more of these diverticula become infected and inflamed, the condition is referred to as diverticulitis. Diverticula most commonly occur in the sigmoid colon, which is the S-shaped section of the large intestine that extends medially to the midline before merging with the rectum. This condition can be serious, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. Treatment for diverticulitis may include antibiotics, bowel rest, and possibly surgery, especially when complications such as abscesses or perforation of the colon occur.