Appendicitis is a sudden inflammation of the appendix, a small, tube-like organ attached to the large intestine. It is one of the most common causes of emergency abdominal surgery. When the appendix becomes blocked and infected, it can swell, fill with pus, and sometimes burst if not treated quickly. This can cause a serious infection inside the abdomen, making early treatment very important.
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Key Takeaways
- Appendicitis is an emergency condition that needs quick medical care.
- It usually starts with pain around the belly button that later moves to the lower right side.
- Surgery is the main treatment, though antibiotics are given if surgery is delayed.
- Delayed treatment can lead to a burst appendix, which is life-threatening.
- Good history-taking and physical examination are key for diagnosis.
What Causes Appendicitis
Appendicitis often happens when the narrow opening of the appendix becomes blocked, usually by stool or small particles. Once blocked, bacteria that normally live in the intestines start to grow inside the appendix, causing infection and swelling.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
Appendicitis pain usually develops in stages:
- It starts as a dull, cramp-like pain around the belly button.
- The pain becomes sharper and moves to the lower right side of the abdomen after a few hours.
- Constipation is common.
- There may be nausea and vomiting.
- A low-grade fever often appears in the early stages.
- The area becomes tender and rigid when touched.
- If the appendix bursts, the pain can spread all over the abdomen, and signs of peritonitis (infection of the abdominal lining) may appear.
How Appendicitis Is Diagnosed
Healthcare providers rely mainly on a careful history and physical examination to make the diagnosis. However, they may also use tests such as:
- Complete blood count (CBC) to check for infection.
- Ultrasound of the abdomen to look for inflammation.
- Abdominal X-ray to detect complications like blockage or perforation.
Treatment and Management
Emergency Surgery
Surgery to remove the appendix (appendectomy) is the main treatment for appendicitis. It is considered an emergency procedure because the appendix can burst if treatment is delayed.
If Surgery Is Delayed
When immediate surgery is not possible, healthcare providers give antibiotics to control infection while referring the patient for surgery.
Typical medicines include:
- Ceftriaxone injection once daily
- Metronidazole injection every 8 hours
The doses are adjusted for children based on their weight.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis
Before surgery, antibiotics are started to prevent infection:
- If the appendix has not burst, antibiotics are continued for less than 24 hours after surgery.
- If the appendix has burst, antibiotics are continued for at least 5 days.
After surgery, doctors will monitor your recovery, ensure the wound heals well, and provide pain relief and advice on diet and activity.
FAQ: Common Questions About Appendicitis
1. What causes appendicitis?
Appendicitis happens when the appendix becomes blocked, usually by stool or particles, leading to bacterial infection.
2. How do I know if my pain is from appendicitis?
Pain that starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right side, especially with nausea, vomiting, or fever, should be checked by a doctor immediately.
3. Can appendicitis go away without surgery?
In most cases, surgery is needed. Antibiotics may help temporarily if surgery is delayed, but removal of the appendix is the best cure.
4. What happens if the appendix bursts?
If the appendix bursts, infection can spread inside the abdomen, causing peritonitis, which is life-threatening and needs urgent medical attention.
5. How long is recovery after appendicitis surgery?
Most people recover within 1 to 3 weeks, though it can take longer if the appendix burst or complications occurred.
6. Can children get appendicitis?
Yes, appendicitis can occur at any age, including in children. Their symptoms may be less clear, so prompt medical evaluation is important.
7. Can appendicitis be prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent appendicitis, but eating foods rich in fibre (like fruits and vegetables) may help reduce the risk by preventing constipation.
