Appendicitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

Appendicitis typically starts with pain around the belly button that then moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. Other common symptoms include:

1. Loss of appetite: Feeling like you don’t want to eat.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Especially if the pain becomes severe.
3. Fever: A low-grade fever may be present, especially if there is an infection.
4. Constipation or diarrhea: Some people may experience changes in bowel habits.
5. Abdominal swelling: The abdomen may become swollen and tender to the touch.
6. Inability to pass gas: Feeling bloated and gassy but unable to relieve it.
7. Painful urination: Some people may experience pain or discomfort when urinating.
8. Rectal pain: Pain in the rectum or anus may occur in some cases.

It’s important to note that not everyone with appendicitis will have all of these symptoms. The key symptom is usually abdominal pain that starts around the belly button and then moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. If you experience these symptoms, especially if the pain is severe or persistent, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly, as appendicitis can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

What are the causes of appendicitis?

Appendicitis is usually caused by a blockage in the opening of the appendix, which leads to inflammation and infection. The blockage is often due to:

1. Fecal matter: A hard piece of stool can become trapped in the appendix.
2. Enlarged lymphoid follicles: This can occur due to an infection elsewhere in the body.
3. Tumors: Rarely, tumors in the digestive tract can cause a blockage.

When the appendix is blocked, bacteria can multiply inside it, leading to swelling, increased pressure, and reduced blood flow. This can cause the appendix to become inflamed and infected, which can lead to the symptoms of appendicitis.

It’s not always clear why the appendix becomes blocked in some people and not others. Some factors that may increase the risk of developing appendicitis include a family history of appendicitis, a diet low in fiber, and certain medical conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract. However, in many cases, the exact cause of appendicitis remains unknown.

What is the treatment for appendicitis?

The primary treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix, a procedure known as an appendectomy. This is typically done as soon as possible after the diagnosis is made, to prevent the appendix from rupturing and causing a serious infection in the abdomen.

There are two main types of appendectomy:

1. Laparoscopic appendectomy: This minimally invasive procedure involves making several small incisions in the abdomen through which a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and surgical instruments are inserted to remove the appendix. Recovery time is usually faster with this approach.
2. Open appendectomy: In some cases, an open surgery may be necessary, especially if the appendix has ruptured or if there are complications. This involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to remove the appendix.

In addition to surgery, treatment for appendicitis may also include:

• Antibiotics: To treat or prevent infection.
• Pain medications: To manage pain after surgery.
• Fluids: To prevent dehydration, especially if there has been vomiting.

It’s important to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect you have appendicitis, as untreated appendicitis can lead to serious complications.