Appendicitis
The appendix is a small pouch attached to the intestine (COLON). It’s in your lower-right abdomen. When your appendix becomes blocked, bacteria can multiply inside it which can lead to the formation of pus and swelling, which inturn causes pain & discomfort in your abdomen. Left untreated, Appendicitis can cause your appendix to burst which can cause the bacteria spill into your abdominal cavity, which can be severe and fatal.
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Symptoms
- Pain abdomen usually starting near the belly button later spreading to the right lower side of the abdomen
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Low-grade fever which might become high grade
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Inability to pass gas
- Bloating sensation in the abdomen
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Causes
- A buildup of hardened stool
- Enlarged lymphoid follicles
- Intestinal worms
- Traumatic injury
- Tumors
- Appendiceal cysts
- Genetic predisposition
Complications
Complications of Appendicitis include:
Perforation
Untreated Appendicitis can cause the appendix to burst, leading to a dangerous infection in the abdomen called peritonitis.
Peritonitis
Infection from a ruptured appendix can inflame the lining of the abdomen, causing severe pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Abscess formation
Sometimes, an infected pocket of pus can form around the appendix, causing persistent abdominal pain, fever, and swelling.
Sepsis
Bacteria from a burst appendix can enter the bloodstream, causing a life-threatening condition called sepsis with high fever and confusion.
Intestinal obstruction
Appendicitis can lead to scarring and blockage in the intestines, causing severe pain, bloating, constipation, and vomiting.
FAQ
Typical symptoms include abdominal pain, especially in the lower right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fever.
Diagnosis usually involves physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to confirm inflammation of the appendix.
Untreated Appendicitis can lead to complications such as perforation, peritonitis, abscess formation, sepsis, and intestinal obstruction.
The standard treatment is surgical removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy, which can be performed either laparoscopically or through open surgery.
Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, depending on individual factors and the type of surgery performed.
A clear liquid diet may be recommended, followed by a gradual return to solid foods. Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks is also advised.
No, the risk of recurrence is eliminated once the appendix is removed.
Surgical removal of the appendix is the standard treatment and is necessary to prevent complications. Alternative treatments are not recommended.
Complications may include infection, bleeding, injury to nearby organs, and adverse reactions to anesthesia, but these are rare with modern surgical techniques.
Unfortunately, there are no known ways to prevent Appendicitis. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking prompt medical attention for abdominal pain can help reduce the risk of complications.
