What You Need to Know About Appendicitis

Appendicitis refers to a condition where the appendix, a small, tube-like pouch attached to the large intestine, is inflamed. It is regarded as a medical emergency and an immediate surgical removal of the appendix which is a procedure that is called appendectomy is usually needed.

An inflamed appendix can rupture, causing severe complications like infecting the abdominal lining (peritonitis) and forming abscesses if it is left untreated.

Symptoms of appendicitis

Appendicitis often begins with pain in the centre of the abdomen that can vary in intensity. This pain typically starts near the navel (belly button) and shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen as the inflammation in the appendix worsens.

At first, the pain may be mild and intermittent, but it often gets more severe and persistent over a few hours. The discomfort often worsens with movement, coughing, or sneezing.

Other relevant symptoms are appetite loss, fever, nausea and vomiting, constipation or diarrhoea, abdominal swelling, and inability to pass gas.

Causes of appendicitis

The exact causes of the disease may be unclear, but they can include:

Obstruction of the opening inside the appendix caused by hardened stool.
Obstruction occurs due to the swelling of the tissue in the appendix wall, which is caused by infection in the digestive tract or other parts of the body.
Inflammation in the intestines can contribute to the development of appendicitis caused by inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Diagnosis of appendicitis

Diagnosis of appendicitis combines physical examinations, medical history, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.

Blood tests	To check for an increased amount of white blood cells that suggests inflammation or infection.
Urine tests	To rule out other illnesses such as kidney stones and urinary tract infections that can cause similar symptoms.
Imaging studies	Ultrasound To visualise the appendix and its surrounding areas. Oftentimes used in children and pregnant women. Computed tomography (CT) scan To provide detailed images of the appendix. Most common imaging test for appendicitis diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan Occasional alternative to CT scans. To prevent pregnant women from being exposed to radiation.

Treatment for appendicitis

Once you are diagnosed with appendicitis by the doctor, it is expected to require an immediate appendix removal as it is considered to be a medical emergency.

The risk of the appendix rupturing and causing a life-threatening infection is significant, which is why doctors often recommend a surgical removal of the appendix.

Generally, there are two methods of surgery:

Open (traditional) surgery method

Removal of the appendix with a single surgical incision in the appendix’s bottom right area.
Longer recovery time.

Laparoscopic method

A minimally invasive approach that involves making a few small incisions in the abdomen, followed by inserting a tiny camera (laparoscope) and surgical instruments through the incisions to remove the appendix.

Shorter recovery time, less pain, and smaller scars compared to the open surgery method.

Complications of appendicitis

If you have appendicitis, the following complications may develop/.

Perforation	A potentially life-threatening complication that demands immediate medical attention. Bacteria and infected material leak into the abdominal cavity due to the rupture of the appendix, which leads to a condition called peritonitis.
Peritonitis	A complication that requires emergency treatment with antibiotics and may also involve draining any abscesses that have developed. The condition is caused by an infection of the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as peritoneum, which can lead to severe abdominal pain, nausea, fever, and vomiting.
Abscess formation	A complication that requires drainage which can be performed either via a catheter or through surgical procedures. The conditions refer to an occasional collection of pus, known as an abscess, that could develop around the appendix or within the abdomen due to the spread of infection.

Signs to see a doctor for appendicitis

The exact cause of appendicitis is mostly unclear and not exactly preventable; therefore, prevention can be challenging. However, contact your doctor or go to your nearest Accident & Emergency at Gleneagles Hospitals immediately if any symptoms of appendicitis mentioned above are noticed. Appendicitis is a severe medical emergency that requires instant treatment.

Book an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you are experiencing any symptoms of appendicitis, consult our doctors immediately. Gleneagles Hospitals has a dedicated team of expert general surgeons that is available for you to get the best care and assistance.

If you have any concerns or questions about appendicitis, feel free to contact us to schedule an appointment today. We are committed to providing the best possible care, personalised to meet your individual needs.

Find A Doctor

Enquiry

Our Specialists