Appendicitis – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the colon in the lower right abdomen.
This condition usually causes pain that begins around the belly button and then moves to the lower right abdomen, becoming more intense as inflammation worsens.
This condition most commonly affects people between ages 10 and 30, though it can occur at any age. The pain of appendicitis usually intensifies over time, eventually becoming quite severe if left untreated.
Treatment options include:
- Antibiotics to fight infection
- Surgery to remove the inflamed appendix (appendectomy)
Most cases of appendicitis require both antibiotics and surgical intervention for complete resolution of the condition.
Signs and Symptoms
Appendicitis typically begins with sudden pain that first appears around the navel and later moves to the lower right abdomen. This pain often becomes worse when moving, coughing, or sneezing.
Other common symptoms include:
- Upset stomach with vomiting
- Loss of hunger
- Mild fever that may increase as the condition worsens
- Bowel problems (either constipation or loose stools)
- Swollen belly
- Trapped gas
Note: Pain location may vary depending on age and appendix position. During pregnancy, women might feel pain higher in their abdomen due to the appendix shifting position.
When Medical Help Is Needed
Contact a healthcare provider if you or your child shows any signs of appendicitis. Severe stomach pain requires immediate emergency medical care.
Causes
A blockage in the appendix lining (lumen) often leads to appendicitis. When blocked, bacteria can quickly multiply inside the appendix, causing:
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Pus buildup
Without treatment, the infected appendix may rupture, turning a minor issue into a medical emergency.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase your chance of getting appendicitis:
- Age: Though appendicitis can happen to anyone, it occurs most commonly in people aged 10–30 years.
Gender: Men face a slightly higher risk of developing appendicitis compared to women.
Complications
Appendicitis can lead to serious health problems if not treated promptly. These complications can be dangerous and sometimes life-threatening.
Ruptured Appendix
When the appendix bursts, it releases bacteria and fecal matter into the abdominal cavity. This causes peritonitis, a serious infection of the abdominal lining.
This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate emergency surgery to remove the appendix and clean the infected area. Doctors will also prescribe strong antibiotics to fight the infection.
Abdominal Abscess
If the appendix ruptures, infected material can collect in a pocket within the abdomen, forming an abscess.
Treatment typically involves:
- Placing a drainage tube through the abdominal wall
- Leaving the tube in place for about two weeks
- Administering antibiotics to clear the infection
After the infection is under control, doctors will surgically remove the appendix. In some cases, healthcare providers may drain the abscess and remove the appendix during the same procedure.
Risk Factors for Complications
Several factors increase the risk of developing complications:
| Risk Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Delayed treatment | The longer appendicitis goes untreated, the higher the risk of rupture |
| Age | Very young children and older adults may have higher complication rates |
| Weakened immune system | People with compromised immunity may develop more severe infections |
