What is appendicitis?
Appendicitis is a sudden inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. When it becomes blocked and infected, it can quickly worsen. Without treatment, the appendix may burst, which can lead to serious complications.
What causes it?
Appendicitis usually happens when the opening of the appendix becomes blocked. This blockage may be caused by hardened stool, swelling from infection, or, rarely, a growth. Once blocked, bacteria can multiply, leading to inflammation and infection.
Symptoms
Appendicitis often begins with pain that gets worse over time and requires prompt medical attention.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain that starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right side
- Increasing discomfort with movement, coughing, or deep breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Mild fever
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal swelling or tenderness
How is it diagnosed?
Your provider will begin with a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. They may gently press on your abdomen to check for tenderness.
To confirm the diagnosis, additional tests may include:
- Blood tests to look for signs of infection
- Urine tests to rule out other conditions
- Imaging, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, to view the appendix
How is it treated?
Appendicitis is treated as an emergency because of the risk of rupture.
Treatment typically includes:
- Surgery (appendectomy): Removal of the appendix is the most common treatment
- Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery is often used
- Open surgery may be needed in more complex cases
- Antibiotics: Used to treat infection before and after surgery
- Drainage: If the appendix has burst, fluid may need to be drained
Recovery
If treated early, many people recover within a few days. If the appendix ruptures, recovery may take longer and require additional care. Most people return to normal activities and live healthy lives without an appendix.
