Appendicitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix, a small tube-like structure located at the beginning of the large intestine. The appendix has no known function, and appendicitis can occur when it becomes blocked by fecal matter, a foreign object, or swollen lymphoid tissue.
The most common symptoms of appendicitis include pain in the abdomen, especially in the lower right side, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, and difficulty passing gas.
Appendicitis is a medical emergency and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to avoid potentially life-threatening complications such as a ruptured appendix. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the inflamed appendix, called an appendectomy, and antibiotics to prevent infection.
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have appendicitis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
APPENDICITIS SYMPTOMS
- Pain in the abdomen, usually starting near the belly button and then moving to the lower right side of the abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low-grade fever
- Swelling or tenderness in the abdomen
- Difficulty passing gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal bloating
- Sharp or stabbing pain that worsens with movement, coughing, or sneezing.
APPENDICITIS TREATMENT
During the surgery, the surgeon will make a small incision in the lower right side of the abdomen to remove the appendix. If the appendix has ruptured, the surgeon may also clean out the abdominal cavity to prevent infection.
In addition to surgery, antibiotics may be given to prevent or treat infection. Pain relief medications may also be prescribed to manage any discomfort.
Recovery from an appendectomy typically takes a few weeks, and patients may need to rest and avoid strenuous activity during this time. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions from your healthcare provider, including taking any prescribed medications and attending any follow-up appointments.
In rare cases, antibiotics alone may be used to treat mild cases of appendicitis, but surgery is generally considered the most effective and reliable treatment option for appendicitis.