Appendicitis

What is Appendicitis?

The appendix is somewhat like a small pouch, approximately 3 inches long, that extends from the body’s large intestine. When the appendix becomes inflamed (swollen), it is called appendicitis. Swelling generally results from infection in the appendix, but it is uncertain what causes the infection. It is possible that the infection results when the appendix is blocked by matter such as feces. Appendicitis is often deemed a medical emergency, as major infection can occur when and if the appendix bursts.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of appendicitis are nausea, fever, loss of appetite and abdominal pain—especially near the navel. Additional symptoms can include constipation or diarrhea, cramping and pain while urinating. As inflammation increases, pain may extend to the lower abdomen on the right side of the body. Movement, including walking, can make the pain more severe. When the appendix ruptures, pain is usually diminished. However, the pain will return with added illness resulting from infection caused by the rupture. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider and seek medical attention.

Treatment

Due to the severity of illness that can result from a burst appendix, surgery is almost always performed to remove the appendix when appendicitis is suspected. Patients are typically unaffected by the removal of the appendix and can continue life as normal after a few weeks of recovering from the surgery. If the appendix bursts before it is removed, recovery is prolonged.