Appendicitis

The appendix is a small finger-like pouch located where the small and large intestines meet. The appendix has no known use. Despite this it can cause a lot of trouble. Appendicitis happens when this pouch, the appendix, becomes inflamed and fills with pus.

The symptoms of appendicitis can be very different with each person. The most common symptoms are loss of appetite, pain, and nausea. The pain usually starts near the navel, and may feel like indigestion. As the pain gets worse, it moves to the right lower side of the abdomen. It is a steady pain that keeps getting worse. The person with appendicitis is usually more comfortable with the knees bent, or drawn up toward the abdomen. Other symptoms may include:

• vomiting
• constipation or mild diarrhea
• abdominal swelling
• an increase of gas, or unable to pass gas and
• a low-grade fever of 99 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit (37.2 to 38.9 degrees Centigrade), which starts after the other symptoms

Appendicitis can happen at any age, although it most frequently occurs between the ages of 10 and 30. Not everyone has all the symptoms. If appendicitis is suspected, laxatives or enemas should not be used. Pain medicine should not be taken. It could mask the symptoms. The symptoms of appendicitis should be taken seriously. A healthcare provider should be seen when someone thinks they have the symptoms of appendicitis.

The provider will talk with the person about their symptoms. A rectal exam may be included with the provider's examination of symptoms. Women usually will have a pelvic exam. Blood and urine tests will be done. All of this helps the provider know if the person has appendicitis. An ultrasound or CT scan may also be done. Once appendicitis has been diagnosed, the person will be scheduled to have surgery to remove the appendix. The only treatment for appendicitis is surgery.

If the person waits too long before seeing the provider, the appendix could rupture or burst. This is a very serious problem. Because the appendix is filled with pus, the pus can then get into the whole abdominal area. This can cause a very serious infection called peritonitis. Peritonitis can be fatal if not treated immediately.

The symptoms of peritonitis are much more severe. The pain is worse, and will be throughout the abdomen. The abdomen may be swollen with gas and fluid, and feel tight or hard. There may be trouble passing gas or a bowel movement. This is a medical emergency. A person with symptoms of peritonitis needs to be seen in the emergency department as soon as possible. Peritonitis is also treated with surgery.

People under 10, or over 50 years of age, and pregnant women may not have the usual symptoms of appendicitis. Because of this, they are more likely to have an appendix that bursts. It is very important for these people to be especially careful to report the early signs of appendicitis.

Because of the risk of rupture, appendicitis is considered an emergency. The symptoms of appendicitis and peritonitis should be taken seriously. They require the immediate attention of a healthcare provider. People can live a normal life without their appendix. There is no known way to prevent appendicitis.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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