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Signs & Symptoms of Pediatric Appendicitis

The function of the appendix remains a mystery to doctors and scientists, who still have not determined what, if anything, it does in the body. One thing that is certain, though, is that when the appendix becomes swollen and inflamed it is an urgent situation that requires prompt medical attention. Most commonly, kids who develop appendicitis must have the appendix surgically removed. Although appendicitis can affect people of all ages, it is most common in those between the ages of 10 and 30, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. It is rare in infants.

  1. Pain

    • The inflammation that develops with appendicitis can cause extreme abdominal pain. A child may complain of severe pain near the bellybutton or in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. The pain usually intensifies over a period of several hours and can be worse when coughing, sneezing, walking or making jarring movements. It may also hurt when you push the child's abdomen and then quickly release the pressure.

    Gastrointestinal Symptoms

    • Children with appendicitis may also develop several gastrointestinal symptoms. Nausea and vomiting are common, as are diarrhea and constipation. Some kids may have trouble passing gas, and the abdomen may also appear swollen or distended. Kids may also lose interest in eating when appendicitis develops.
      Children 2 and younger who develop an appendicitis often experience pain, vomiting and abdominal swelling as the only signs of the condition, according to KidsHealth.

    Fever

    • In many cases, appendicitis is the result of an infection. Because of this, a fever is a common symptom of appendicitis. The fever is usually low grade and often develops after other symptoms have been noticed, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.

    Other Symptoms

    • Other possible signs of appendicitis in a child include a frequent or strong urge to urinate and feeling as though having a bowel movement will alleviate the pain and discomfort.

      If an appendicitis is left untreated, the appendix can burst within one to three days of symptoms developing. If this happens, you child may develop a high fever and may experience pain throughout the abdominal region. Immediate medical attention is necessary if the appendix does burst.

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