Appendicitis

Key Points

Overview

Appendicitis is an inflammation and infection of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped organ attached to the large intestine. It typically begins with pain around the belly button, which then shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen and worsens over time. This condition is serious and requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, the appendix can burst, leading to more severe complications and widespread infection in the abdomen, which can be life-threatening. Diagnosis can be challenging as symptoms often mimic other conditions. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the appendix (appendectomy), though in some cases, antibiotics may be used, especially if the infection has not spread widely.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain starting around the belly button
• Pain moving to the lower right abdomen
• Worsening pain with movement, cough, or pressure
• Feeling sick or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• High temperature
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Peeing more often
• Sudden confusion (in older people)

Things That Increase the Risk

• Young children and older people (symptoms may differ)
• Pregnancy (symptoms may differ)
• Delayed medical attention (increases complication risk)
• Misdiagnosis due to similar abdominal conditions

Diagnosis

• Physical exam of the abdomen
• Blood tests
• Urine sample test
• Ultrasound or CT scan
• Pregnancy test (if applicable)
• Observation in hospital for symptom development

Treatment & Management

• Surgery to remove the appendix (appendectomy)
• Keyhole surgery (laparoscopic appendectomy)
• Open surgery (larger incision)
• Antibiotics (if infection not spread or high surgical risk)
• Antibiotics for appendix mass, followed by later surgery

Prevention

• Seek immediate medical help for severe abdominal pain
• Do not ignore worsening abdominal pain
• Avoid self-diagnosing abdominal symptoms
• Follow medical advice for persistent abdominal discomfort

Related Diseases

• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones
• Gallstones
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Crohn's disease
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ectopic pregnancy

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Appendicitis:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Appendicitis: