ColomboSurgeon

Appendicitis

What is appendicitis?

 

Appendicitis is a condition where the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine, becomes inflamed and infected. The appendix is located in the lower right side of the abdomen. While its exact function is unclear, it is not essential for survival. Appendicitis is a medical emergency that often requires surgery to remove the appendix.

 

What Causes appendicitis?

The exact cause of appendicitis isn't always clear but may include:

  • Blockage of the appendix opening by stool, foreign bodies, or infections.
  • Swelling of lymphatic tissue due to infections

Symptoms of appendicitis 

The most common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal Pain: Starts near the belly button and shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen.
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Fever: Often mild but may become severe.
  • Swelling in the Abdomen

 

The pain typically worsens over time and may increase with movement, coughing, or sneezing.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

  • Sudden, severe abdominal pain.
  • Pain that worsens over a few hours.
  • Fever and vomiting in addition to abdominal pain.

Delaying treatment can lead to complications like a ruptured appendix or infection in the abdominal cavity (peritonitis).

 

How is appendicitis diagnosed?

Doctors use the following methods to diagnose appendicitis:

  • Physical Exam: Pressing on the abdomen to assess pain.
  • Blood Tests: To check for infection.
  • Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scan to confirm inflammation.

 

Treatment for appendicitis 

Surgery (Appendectomy):

  • The most common treatment for appendicitis.
  • Can be performed through open surgery or laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery.
  • Prevents rupture and further complications.

Antibiotics:

  • In some cases, antibiotics may be tried as the first line of treatment.
  • If the infection doesn't resolve or recurs, surgery may still be required.