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Appendix Bursting Symptoms

The appendix is a narrow, dead-end tube attached to the beginning of the colon. It is believed that a condition called appendicitis occurs when the area connecting the appendix and colon (cecum) becomes blocked. This causes the appendix to become inflamed and infected by bacteria, which can lead to its rupture.
Another theory is that the appendix ruptures first, causing a bacterial infection. A ruptured appendix can lead to peritonitis, a dangerous infection of the stomach lining and pelvis. A burst appendix can lead to various complications and even death if not promptly treated.

  1. Abdominal Pain and Tenderness

    • Severe abdominal pain occurs with both appendicitis (an inflamed appendix) and a burst appendix. You would normally feel the pain from a burst appendix across the whole area of the stomach as the entire stomach lining becomes inflamed. If you press on your abdomen, you will feel pain as you release the pressure. Especially in children 2 years and younger, the stomach can appear swollen.

    Fever

    • After your appendix has burst, your body is in full alert to ward away bacterial infection. A fever is a sign that your body is attempting to protect itself against bacteria. With a burst appendix, bacteria may be spreading quickly, leading to an unusually high fever that can exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Loss of Appetite

    • Because of the stress being placed upon that area of the body by infection and its closeness to the stomach area, you will not feel like eating. It is best not to eat or drink anything if you are experiencing abdominal pain that may be from a burst appendix or appendicitis because surgery will likely be needed to remove the troublesome appendage.

    Nausea/Vomiting

    • If infection spreads from the burst appendix to the stomach, a feeling of nausea or stage of vomiting can occur because of the stress on the stomach. If the intestine becomes blocked, its muscles can no longer work properly to pass its contents. Liquid and gas begin to build up in the intestines and produce a swelling of the stomach that triggers nausea and vomiting.

    Urge to Urinate/Constipation

    • Because the infected appendix is located near the bladder and anus, you may feel a lot of uncomfortable pressure in the area. It may feel like you constantly need to go to the bathroom.

    Diarrhea

    • Infection spreading to the stomach or intestines may trigger an attack of diarrhea. The stool may contain a mucus-like substance produced by the appendix, which some believe can cause the blockage that begins the symptoms of appendicitis. Stool from the colon is may be a possibility as the cause of the obstruction.

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