What is Appendicitis?
As the name suggests, appendicitis is the painful swelling of the appendix, which is a small thin pouch about 2-4 inches long. The appendix is attached to the large intestine. While nobody knows what its function is, we do know that removing it is not harmful. (Mayo Clinic 2019)
Fast facts on appendicitis:
- Early symptoms include pain near the belly button that may shift toward the lower right-hand side of the abdomen.
- If treatment for gas does not solve the problem, prompt medical attention should be sought.
- Many people with suspected appendicitis will go directly to the emergency department.
- Early treatment is usually successful, but untreated appendicitis can lead to fatal complications.
(Medical News Today 2017)
What Causes Appendicitis?
The appendix connects to your large intestine. Appendicitis occurs when something — mucus, foreign object, or most often stool (waste) — blocks the opening between the appendix and the large intestine. The blockage causes irritation, inflammation, and possibly an infection.
The main symptom of appendicitis is abdominal pain. You may feel discomfort in the entire stomach area. However, there could be additional symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain that gets worse when you cough or walk
- Abdominal swelling
- Indigestion
- Nausea and vomiting soon after abdominal pain begins
- Loss of appetite
- Fever of 99°F – 102°F
- Inability to pass gas
- Constipation or diarrhea
(Healthline 2016)
Symptoms of appendicitis come on suddenly and intensify quickly. Pain may worsen when you move, take a deep breath, cough, or sneeze.
Acute appendicitis is a severe and sudden condition, with symptoms usually developing over one or two days. If you suspect your abdominal pain is due to appendicitis, you need to seek immediate medical attention.
When left untreated, you run the risk of having your appendix burst a condition known as peritonitis. Peritonitis is a severe life-threatening condition caused by bacteria from your ruptured appendix spilling into your abdominal cavity.
How is Appendicitis Diagnosed
Diagnosing appendicitis can be tricky. Symptoms are often unclear or similar to those of other illnesses, including gallbladder problems, bladder or urinary tract infection, kidney stones, intestinal infection, and ovary problems. Although these tests can help diagnose appendicitis:
- Abdominal Exam: During the examination, they will check for tenderness in the lower right part of your abdomen, as well as for any swelling or rigidity
- Urine Test: This is done to rule out the possibility of your pain is caused by a urinary tract infection or kidney stones
- Blood Test: A complete blood count test will tell our doctors if you have an infection
- Abdominal Imaging Tests: These tests will help find any inflammation of your appendix. Our doctors may order one or more the following exams:
- Abdominal Ultrasound or X-Ray or CT Scan
