Appendicitis

Appendicitis is a common condition worldwide, and it can affect anyone at any age, and it’s a medical emergency that must be managed rapidly.

Appendicitis

The appendix is a finger-sized tubular pouch that emerges from the end of the large colon on the lower right side of the abdomen. Appendicitis most often occurs in an acute way, and it’s considered a medical emergency, but sometimes, inflammation of the appendix might be chronic and doesn’t cause sudden and severe symptoms like the acute type. However, any type of appendicitis is serious and must be managed rapidly.

Causes of appendicitis

• Appendicitis in general occurs due to a blockage in the appendix that might ultimately cause an infection, such as calcified fecal deposits, tumors, and cystic fibrosis.
• Sometimes, appendicitis might occur as a result of lymphoid hyperplasia or colitis.

Symptoms of appendicitis

• Sudden pain on the lower right of the abdomen or around the belly button that extends to the lower right part.
• The pain becomes worse when coughing, walking, or making certain movements.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Loss of appetite.
• Low-grade fever.
• Abdominal swelling.
• Tiredness and weakness.
• When not managed immediately, appendicitis might cause the appendix to burst, which can also cause the formation of a pus-filled pocket (abscess). If not managed, this could lead to the spread of the infection throughout the abdomen, which is a life-threatening condition.

Diagnosis of appendicitis

• Physical exam.
• Blood tests.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of appendicitis

• Typically, appendicitis is managed by an appendectomy. Before the surgery, the patient is given antibiotics to manage the infection.