Appendix and Appendicitis

Understanding the Appendix

The appendix is a small tube-shaped organ located in the lower right part of the abdomen. Although it is considered to have no important function, the appendix can cause serious health problems when it becomes inflamed, known as appendicitis. This condition has the potential to lead to serious complications such as a ruptured appendix and peritonitis, if not treated promptly.

Main Symptoms of Appendicitis

Appendicitis can be recognised through several symptoms:

1. Pain in Right Lower Abdomen

   The pain usually starts in the middle of your belly, around your belly button. It might feel like a general ache at first. After some hours, this pain typically moves to the lower right side of your abdomen, where the appendix is located. It becomes sharper and more intense. Activities like moving around, coughing, or pressing on the painful area can make the pain worse. Pulling your knees up to your chest may reduce the discomfort slightly. This is because it eases tension on the abdominal muscles.

2. Feeling or Being Sick (Nausea or Vomiting):

   Many people with appendicitis feel sick to their stomach or might throw up. This nausea can be persistent and may get worse as the inflammation worsens. The appendix is part of your digestive system. When it becomes inflamed, it can disrupt the normal functioning of your stomach and intestines. The inflammation can irritate nearby tissues and organs, causing nausea as a reaction. You might feel like you are experiencing food poisoning or a stomach bug.

3. Loss of Appetite:

   You might not feel like eating, even if you have not had a meal for hours. This loss of appetite can sometimes come before the pain starts. Your body shifts its energy to fight the inflammation in the appendix, suppressing your normal hunger signals. The irritation in your digestive system may also make the thought of eating unappealing. Even foods you usually enjoy might seem unappetising.

4. High Temperature (Fever):

   You may develop a fever, often along with chills or sweating. This can make you feel tired or weak. A fever is your body’s natural way of fighting infection. When the appendix becomes inflamed, your immune system reacts by raising your body temperature to slow down the bacteria causing the infection. If the infection spreads, the fever can get worse, signalling a more serious condition. You might feel hot, flushed, or experience shivering.

5. Constipation or Diarrhoea:

   You may have difficulty passing stools (constipation) or experience frequent, loose, and watery stools (diarrhoea). The appendix is located near your intestines, and when it is inflamed, it can disrupt their normal functioning. Inflammation can cause the bowels to react differently—either slowing down (constipation) or speeding up (diarrhoea). You might feel bloated, uncomfortable, or have an urgent need to use the toilet.

6. Peeing More Often:

   You might feel the need to urinate more often than usual, even if you do not drink much fluid. The appendix is close to the bladder. When it is inflamed, it can press against the bladder, causing irritation. This irritation may make you feel like you need to pee frequently, even if your bladder is not full. It may feel like a mild discomfort or pressure in your lower abdomen when you pee.

7. Sudden Confusion (in Older Adults):

   Older individuals with appendicitis might suddenly seem disoriented, forgetful, or confused. In older adults, the body reacts differently to severe infections. Instead of showing classic symptoms like pain, they might exhibit mental changes. This confusion can occur when the infection spreads or causes a systemic inflammatory response, affecting the brain. Family members or caregivers may notice unusual behaviour, like difficulty focusing or understanding simple instructions.

Major Causes of Appendicitis

Various factors can contribute to causes of appendicitis or inflammation in the appendix.

1. Blockage of the Appendix

   A blockage in the appendix is often the main cause of appendicitis. This happens when faeces or other debris clogs these small tubes, causing bacteria to grow and cause inflammation. If left untreated, a blocked appendix can rupture and cause serious complications.

2. Bacterial Infections

   Bacteria like E. coli can cause infection in the appendix, which leads to inflammation. This infection needs to be treated immediately to prevent the appendix from rupturing and spreading the bacteria throughout the abdomen, which can cause peritonitis.

Diagnosing Appendicitis

Diagnosing appendicitis involves clinical evaluation, laboratory test, and imaging studies. In addition to a physical examination, blood tests are often performed to detect infection. Ultrasound or CT scan is used to get a clearer picture of the appendix and determine the possibility of appendicitis.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the appendix heal without medical treatment?

   Appendicitis rarely heals on its own and usually requires immediate medical treatment, including surgery.

2. How is appendix surgery performed?

   Appendicectomy can be performed laparoscopically or as an open surgery.

3. Can diet prevent appendicitis?

   No specific food can prevent appendicitis.

Book an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you experience symptoms of appendix-like pain in the lower right side of the abdomen, nausea, or fever, seek medical treatment as soon as possible to prevent serious complications such as a ruptured appendix, and ensure a quick and safe recovery. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and ensure a speedy recovery.

If you have questions about appendicitis, get in touch with us to book an appointment at your nearest Gleneagles Hospitals to receive professional advice to help kickstart your health journey. To make an appointment for health screening, please contact the health screening centre at the Gleneagles Hospitals nearest to you.