What is Appendicitis?
Definition: Appendicitis is when the appendix, a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to your large intestine, gets inflamed or swollen. The appendix is located on the lower right side of your abdomen.
What Happens: When the appendix becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and other symptoms. If not treated, it can lead to a serious infection or burst.
What Causes Appendicitis?
Blocked Appendix: Appendicitis often starts when the appendix becomes blocked by stool, a foreign object, or cancer. This blockage leads to infection and swelling.
Infection: Sometimes, infections can also cause the appendix to become inflamed.
Tumors: Rarely happens but tumors or growths (benign or malignant) can also cause blockage of the appendix, leading to inflammation.
What Are the Symptoms?
Common Symptoms:
- Abdominal Pain: This is usually the first sign. Starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right side.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach and throwing up.
- Loss of Appetite: Not feeling hungry.
- Fever: A higher-than-normal body temperature.
- Constipation or Diarrhea: Changes in bowel movements.
- Swelling: Painful swelling in the stomach area.
When Symptoms Appear: Symptoms usually start suddenly and get worse quickly. If you have these symptoms, you should see a doctor right away.
How is Appendicitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis Methods:
- Medical History: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history.
- Physical Exam: The doctor will check your abdomen for pain and swelling. Doctor may apply gentle pressure and then quickly release it to check for rebound tenderness, a common sign of appendicitis.
- Imaging Tests: An ultrasound or CT scan can help confirm if you have appendicitis.
How is Appendicitis Treated?
Appendicitis is almost always treated as an emergency.
Treatment Methods:
- Surgery: The most common treatment is removing the appendix in a surgery called an appendectomy. This can be done through a small cut or a few small cuts.
- Antibiotics: Medicines to fight infection may be given before or after surgery.
Recovery: After surgery, most people recover quickly. You may need to rest and avoid heavy activities for a few weeks.
Prevention
Can’t Always Prevent: There’s no sure way to prevent appendicitis. However, a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables may help reduce the risk.
Conclusion
Appendicitis is a serious condition where the appendix becomes inflamed. Recognizing the symptoms early and getting prompt medical care is important for a quick recovery. If you have symptoms, don’t wait—see a doctor right away!
For More Information
- Check out the Mayo Clinic Appendicitis Information for reliable medical advice.
- Visit John Hopkins Medicine Website for more information.
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