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. Appendicitis causes pain that typically begins around the navel and then shifts to the lower right abdomen. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt surgery to remove the appendix. If left untreated, an inflamed appendix can rupture, spilling infectious material into the abdominal cavity, which can be life-threatening.
Causes
- Obstruction of the appendiceal lumen, often by fecal matter
- Enlarged lymphoid follicles due to viral infection
- Parasites or foreign bodies
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Tumors (rarely)
- Bacterial infection
- Trauma to the abdomen
- Family history may increase risk
- Age (more common in individuals between 10 and 30 years)
Signs and Symptoms
- Sudden pain that begins around the navel and often shifts to the lower right abdomen
- Pain that worsens with movement, coughing, or deep breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever that may worsen as the illness progresses
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal bloating
- Inability to pass gas
- Rebound tenderness (pain when pressure is released from the abdomen)
- In case of rupture: severe pain throughout abdomen and high fever
Diagnosis
Physical Examination
The doctor will apply gentle pressure to the painful area to check for tenderness and rebound tenderness. They may also perform specific tests like the Rovsing sign or psoas sign to help diagnose appendicitis.
Blood Tests
A high white blood cell count indicates infection. Blood tests can also check for signs of inflammation and infection in the body.
Urine Tests
To rule out urinary tract infection or kidney stones, which can cause similar symptoms.
Imaging Studies
Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to visualize the appendix and determine if it is inflamed. These imaging techniques can also help rule out other causes of abdominal pain.
Treatment Options
Surgery (Appendectomy)
The standard treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix. This can be performed as a traditional (open) surgery or as a less invasive laparoscopic procedure using several smaller incisions.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are given before surgery to fight infection. In some cases of mild, uncomplicated appendicitis, antibiotics alone might be considered as treatment, though this approach is still being studied.
Pain Management
Pain medications are prescribed to manage discomfort before and after surgery.
Drainage of Abscess
If the appendix has burst and an abscess has formed, the doctor might place a drainage tube through the skin to drain the infection before performing an appendectomy.
Home Remedies
Important Note
Appendicitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt professional medical attention. There are no safe home remedies to treat appendicitis, and attempting to treat it at home can lead to serious complications, including a ruptured appendix, which can be life-threatening.
Before Medical Care
While waiting for medical care, do not eat or drink anything, do not use laxatives or enemas, do not apply heat to the area, and avoid pain medications other than those prescribed by your doctor, as they can mask symptoms.
Preventive Care
- Appendicitis is not generally preventable as the cause is often unclear
- Maintain good digestive health with a high-fiber diet
- Stay well-hydrated
- Seek prompt medical attention for persistent abdominal pain, especially if it begins around the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen
- Do not ignore warning signs such as worsening pain, fever, or vomiting
Surgical Options
Laparoscopic Appendectomy
A minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon makes 1-3 small incisions in the abdomen. A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted through one incision, and surgical tools are inserted through the others. The appendix is then removed through one of the incisions. This approach typically results in faster recovery, less pain, and smaller scars.
Learn More About This ProcedureOpen Appendectomy
A traditional surgical approach where a single, larger incision is made in the lower right side of the abdomen. The appendix is removed through this incision. This approach may be necessary if the appendix has ruptured or if there are complications that make laparoscopic surgery difficult.
Learn More About This ProcedureInterval Appendectomy
In some cases where an abscess has formed, the initial treatment may involve antibiotics and drainage of the abscess, followed by an appendectomy after several weeks when inflammation has subsided.
Learn More About This ProcedureSchedule a Consultation
If you're experiencing symptoms of appendicitis, our expert team is here to help you find the right treatment approach for your specific needs.