Appendicitis

What is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a finger-shaped pouch that projects from your colon on the lower right side of your abdomen.

The appendix fills with pus, causing pain that typically becomes severe within 12 to 18 hours. It is a medical emergency that usually requires surgery.

Symptoms

The classic symptom is pain that migrates. It typically starts as a dull ache around the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen.

• Rebound Tenderness: Pain worsens when you press on the lower right belly and quickly release.
• Jarring Pain: Pain worsens if you cough, walk, or make sudden movements.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite.
• Low-grade fever.
• Inability to pass gas.

⚠️ EMERGENCY: RUPTURE RISK
If the pain suddenly stops for a short time and then returns as a widespread, severe pain across the entire abdomen, the appendix may have ruptured.

Call emergency services immediately. A rupture spreads infection (Peritonitis) throughout the abdomen and can be fatal.

Causes

Appendicitis occurs when the inside of the appendix becomes blocked. Causes include:

• Fecal Stone (Fecalith): A hard piece of stool blocking the opening.
• Infection: A gastrointestinal viral or bacterial infection causing swelling.
• Inflammation: Swelling of the lymphoid follicles in the walls of the appendix.

Complications

• Ruptured Appendix: Spreads bacteria through the abdominal cavity.
• Abscess: A pocket of pus forms around the appendix. This may need to be drained with a tube before surgery can be performed.

Diagnosis

Doctors use physical exams and imaging to confirm the diagnosis:

• Physical Exam: Checking for rigidity and pain in the lower right quadrant (McBurney's Point).
• Blood Test: To check for a high white blood cell count (sign of infection).
• Urine Test: To rule out a kidney stone or UTI.
• Imaging (CT Scan / Ultrasound): To visualize the inflamed appendix.

Treatment: Appendectomy

The standard treatment is surgical removal of the appendix. Antibiotics are given to treat infection.

1. Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive)

The surgeon makes a few small incisions and inserts a camera and special tools to remove the appendix. This offers faster recovery and less scarring.

2. Open Surgery

If the appendix has ruptured or there is a large abscess, the surgeon may need to make a larger incision to clean the abdominal cavity.

Recovery Tips

• Avoid Strenuous Activity: For 3-5 days after laparoscopic surgery, or 10-14 days after open surgery.
• Support Your Abdomen: Hold a pillow over your belly when you cough or laugh to reduce pain.
• Move: Start short walks as soon as you feel able to prevent blood clots.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.