What Is Appendicitis? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Guide

Stomach pain is something almost everyone deals with at some point. Usually, it is nothing serious and goes away on its own. But when the pain becomes sharp, gets worse, and does not improve, it could be a sign of something more serious. One possible cause is appendicitis, a condition that needs quick medical attention.

Many people are not sure what the appendix does or why it can suddenly cause problems, which makes it easy to ignore early warning signs. Knowing what to look for can help you take action before complications happen. This guide covers appendicitis: its causes, symptoms, prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment.

What Is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small, finger-like pouch attached to the large intestine in the lower right abdomen. It often begins when the appendix becomes blocked by stool, infection, or a foreign object, causing swelling and a potential rupture if left untreated. This medical emergency typically requires prompt surgical removal of the appendix.

In some cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. This is why appendicitis is treated as a medical emergency, and the standard treatment is to remove the appendix, a procedure known as an appendectomy.

How Common is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is one of the most common reasons for emergency stomach surgery. Although it can occur at any age, teenagers and young adults between the ages of 10 and 30 are the most commonly affected.

There is also a rare type called chronic appendicitis, where mild pain comes and goes over time. Because the symptoms are mild, many people do not realize what is wrong until it suddenly becomes worse.

Symptoms and Causes of Appendicitis

Appendicitis often causes stomach pain, nausea, and a loss of appetite, but not everyone feels the same symptoms. Some people, especially children, older adults, and pregnant women, may not have the usual signs, which can make appendicitis harder to notice.

Early Signs

Initially, stomach pain typically begins near the belly button and may fluctuate in intensity. After a few hours, it often becomes sharper and moves to the lower right side of the belly.

Nausea and vomiting often start after the pain and can make you feel weak and uncomfortable.

Other Symptoms

Some people may also notice:

• Fever, as the body tries to fight the infection

• Feeling unwell or very tired, similar to having the flu

• A swollen or bloated belly, especially if the appendix bursts

• Needing to urinate more often or urgently, if the appendix is close to the bladder

• Bowel changes, such as constipation, trouble passing gas, or diarrhea

What Causes Appendicitis?

Doctors do not always know the exact cause of appendicitis, but it usually starts when the appendix becomes blocked. This can happen because of:

• Buildup of stool

• Swelling from infection

• Intestinal worms

• Tumors

When the appendix is blocked, bacteria grow quickly inside it. This leads to swelling, pressure, and pain. If it is not treated in time, the appendix can burst and cause serious infections inside the body.

Appendicitis can resemble other stomach problems, but worsening or severe abdominal pain, especially sharp pain in the lower right side with nausea or vomiting, needs immediate medical attention. Early treatment helps prevent serious complications like peritonitis or sepsis.

How Is Appendicitis Diagnosed?

To diagnose appendicitis, a healthcare provider will first ask about your symptoms and pain. They will perform a physical exam, checking for signs like tenderness, swelling, or pain when pressure is applied to your abdomen.

If your symptoms suggest appendicitis, they may diagnose it right away. If not, additional tests are usually needed to confirm the condition.

Common Tests for Appendicitis:

• Blood Tests: These can show signs of infection or inflammation, such as a high white blood cell count or C-reactive protein levels.

• Abdominal Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to check for a swollen appendix.

• CT Scan: Provides detailed images of the appendix and can help confirm if it’s inflamed.

In some cases, other tests may be needed to rule out similar conditions.

What Are the Differences Between Acute and Chronic Appendicitis?

There are two types of appendicitis: acute and chronic.

• Acute Appendicitis: This type develops quickly, usually within 24 to 48 hours. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent the appendix from bursting. If untreated, a burst appendix can lead to peritonitis, a serious infection that can be life-threatening.

• Chronic Appendicitis: This problem is less common and harder to diagnose, with mild, recurrent symptoms like pain or cramping over months or years. Many don't realize they have chronic appendicitis until it becomes acute. If you frequently experience mild, unexplained stomach cramps, tell your doctor.

What Is Appendicitis Treatment?

The most common treatment for appendicitis is an appendectomy, which is the surgical removal of the appendix. In rare cases, doctors may use needle drainage if an abscess (infection pocket) has formed, but an appendectomy is the standard treatment.

Laparoscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive surgery involves small incisions and is less painful, with quicker recovery. You may even be able to go home the next day.

Open Surgery: This approach is the traditional method, requiring a larger incision. It may take several weeks to fully recover, and you’ll need to care for your incisions and follow up with your doctor.

While any surgery carries risks, the risks of untreated appendicitis are much higher than the risks of surgery. Most people recover fully within a few weeks after an appendectomy.

Concerned About Appendicitis? Trust Adren JR Surgery for Expert Care

If you're experiencing symptoms of appendicitis, don’t wait to seek help. At Adren JR Surgery, our skilled team specializes in diagnosing and treating appendicitis. Whether you're in the early stages or worried about possible complications, we're here to help. Schedule your consultation today or contact our office to discuss your symptoms with a specialist. If the situation is time-sensitive, seeking emergency care is vital.