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Appendicitis & Abdominal Pain

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a small, pouch-like organ that is attached to the large intestine. According to the University of Maryland Medicinal Center, the most common form of emergency abdominal surgery is removal of the appendix. Appendicitis is caused by a blockage of the appendix from feces, foreign objects or tumors. Appendicitis can cause acute abdominal pain.

  1. Symptoms

    • Appendicitis starts as a vague pain in the abdomen. As the inflammation gets worse the abdominal pain becomes acute. Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting accompany a low-grade fever. The abdominal pain moves to the lower right on the belly. The pain soon focuses right above the appendix. Other symptoms include chills, constipation and diarrhea. Moving around makes the pain worse. Sudden movement will cause sharp pain.

    Diagnosis

    • Diagnosis of appendicitis is based on symptoms, physical examination and medical tests. During a physical exam, the doctor will press down on the lower right of the abdomen. An appendicitis will cause more pain when the doctor releases the pressure. This test may even cause muscle spasms in the abdomen. A rectal examination will reveal that the abdomen or pelvic area is tender on the right side of the body. Blood tests, abdominal CT scans, ultrasounds and diagnostic laparoscopy are used to determine appendicitis.

    Treatment

    • Appendicitis is treated with an appendectomy. This is the surgical removal of the appendix. A general anesthesia is used. A small incision is made on the lower right side through which the appendix is removed. If the appendix bursts it creates an abscess. The doctor will treat you for the infection first, then he will remove what is left of the appendix.

    Medical Emergency

    • Go to the emergency room if you have acute pain, fever, are vomiting blood or have bloody diarrhea. More symptoms include a rigid abdomen, inability to pass stool, dizziness, lightheadedness, chest pain and shoulder pain. Other symptoms are nausea, lack of appetite, unintentionally losing weight and yellowing of eyes or skin. Bloating for more than two days, diarrhea lasting more than five days, vomiting for 12 hours or abdomen discomfort for one week need medical attention.

    Warning

    • An acute appendicitis can be fatal. If you suspect that you have appendicitis, contact your care provider right away. Do not attempt to relieve the symptoms at home with heating pads, enemas and laxatives. You cannot treat an appendicitis with home remedies. Severe abdominal pain requires a trip to the hospital.

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