Final answer:
Diverticulitis involves the infection and inflammation of diverticula in the large intestine, while Gastroenteritis or infectious diarrhea is caused by pathogens in the gastrointestinal tract. Treatment for diverticulitis often includes antibiotics and possibly surgery, whereas gastroenteritis primarily requires hydration and rest.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diverticulitis is a condition in which diverticula, small pouches in the wall of the large intestine, become infected and inflamed. This can result in symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, potentially with fever, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, and blood in the stool. In contrast, Gastroenteritis, often referred to as infectious diarrhea, is caused by an infection of the gastrointestinal tract by pathogens and presents with diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and possibly fever and dehydration.
While diverticulosis refers to the presence of diverticula, it is without inflammation or infection. Diverticulitis can be diagnosed usually with a CT scan and the treatment may range from oral antibiotics and liquid diet for mild cases, to intravenous antibiotics and hospitalization for severe cases.
In the case of gastroenteritis, treatment focuses on fluid replacement since antibiotics are not typically effective, especially when the cause is viral. With up to five billion cases each year globally, gastroenteritis is a significant health concern particularly in areas with poor sanitation.