A 58-year-old male presents with severe left lower quadrant pain, nausea, and fever. He also reports two episodes of vomiting. On examination, his left lower abdomen is tender with involuntary guarding. What might be the issue and how should it be managed?
The patient's symptoms and examination findings are suggestive of acute diverticulitis with signs of peritoneal irritation, indicating possible perforation. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Initial management includes fluid resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and urgent surgical consultation for possible source control.