Appendicitis Symptoms in Men

For something we're able to live without, our appendix can certainly give us a wealth of medical issues. The most common is that of appendicitis, an inflammation of this tiny tube that serves no actual function as part of our digestive system. When you suffer from this condition, the only real course of action is to remove the appendix before it bursts. This is important since this rupture can fill the abdominal cavity with bacteria and other toxins that can lead to potentially fatal conditions. Of course, there are certain symptoms to look for when you have appendicitis, no matter if you're a man or a woman (they're virtually the same in both sexes). Most of the indicators are fairly ambiguous and can be mistaken for something else entirely.

Pain

• The true hallmark of appendicitis is pain. And, it can manifest itself in two different ways. You'll either feel a fairly dull, almost throbbing pain near your navel or a sharp, shooting pain that essentially moves from the upper abdomen down to the lower right abdominal region. While people will typically experience pain around the abdomen, a number of people have also experienced pain in the back or rectum. Customarily, pain will be the very first symptom you'll suffer with appendicitis, and it will generally last for an extended period of time (upwards of 4 hours).

Stomach Issues

• More often than not, the pain will soon be followed by other, just as common, appendicitis symptoms that will usually involve your stomach. Many times, people will feel quite nauseous immediately after the pain, be it dull or sharp, and they may vomit. However, a number of people will actually go through the reverse and become nauseous or vomit almost immediately prior to the pain.

Other Digestive Issues

• As you suffer from appendicitis, you'll often undergo a number of other digestive issues. According to the Department of Gastroenterology at the Cleveland Clinic, half the people with appendicitis will experience a general loss of appetite. This is often accompanied by bouts of constipation or diarrhea as well as gas. Some people will also be subjected to swelling in the abdominal region and a feeling of gas, yet the inability to do so.

Additional Symptoms

• Besides the pain and digestive issues, people suffering from appendicitis may endure fairly severe cramping. This is different than the abdominal pain you'll first experience as this is cramping, not a dull or sharp pain. Often times, people will also come down with a fever, generally between 99 and 102.

Ruptured/Burst Appendix

• If your appendix were to actually burst or rupture, the appendicitis symptoms may change. Frequently, the pain you're experiencing will suddenly disappear and your abdominal region will soon become quite firm, almost rigid. Later, the pain will come back, only worse, and you'll feel extremely sick. When you experience these or any other symptoms relating to appendicitis, you should contact your doctor immediately. Generally, all symptoms relating to appendicitis will happen in less than 24 hours time. Yet, since no two people are alike, it could be longer or shorter, depending on the individual.