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About Appendicitis
Appendicitis is the inflammation and swelling of the appendix, usually caused by a blockage followed by bacterial infection. The main symptom is constant abdominal pain that typically begins near the navel and gradually shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen.
Your doctor may recommend early surgery to prevent serious complications. Appendectomy is a common, safe, and effective procedure, and is often performed as an emergency treatment.
What is Appendicitis?
What is appendicitis?
Before understanding appendicitis, it is important to know about the appendix. The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch that projects from the colon at the junction of the small and large intestine.
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, usually caused by a blockage in its opening, often leading to bacterial infection. It is commonly characterized by intense pain in the lower right side of the abdomen.
Types of Appendicitis :
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Acute Appendicitis :
This is a sudden and severe form of appendicitis in which symptoms develop quickly. It requires immediate medical treatment.
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Chronic Appendicitis
This is a rare form where symptoms are mild and may come and go over time, making it more difficult to diagnose.
How Does Appendicitis Form?
Appendicitis develops when the appendix becomes blocked. This blockage may occur due to hardened stool (fecal matter), buildup of mucus, or swelling of lymphatic tissue within the appendix.
In some cases, infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites in the digestive tract can also lead to inflammation and blockage. Once the appendix is blocked, bacteria multiply inside it, leading to swelling, infection, and pain.
Causes of Appendicitis
The exact cause of appendicitis is not always known, but it usually occurs when the appendix becomes blocked, allowing infection to develop. Common causes include:
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Infections in the digestive tract
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Abdominal injury or trauma
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Constipation or buildup of hardened stool (fecal blockage)
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Tumors in the appendix (rare)
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Inflammatory bowel diseases
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Enlarged lymphoid follicles (swelling of lymph tissue)
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Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms (Ascaris)
Symptoms of Appendicitis
Here are the symptoms of appendicitis you should look out for:
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Intense abdominal pain that gradually worsens over a few hours, usually in the lower right side of the abdomen. In pregnant women, the pain may be felt higher on the right side.
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Pain becomes worse when pressing on the affected area, coughing, or sudden movement
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Loss of appetite
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Diarrhea (may occur in some cases)
Diagnosis of Appendicitis
Appendicitis is usually diagnosed through a physical examination, followed by additional tests to confirm the condition and rule out other causes of abdominal pain.
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Physical Examination
The doctor may press on the lower right side of the abdomen to check for tenderness, pain, and swelling.
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Blood and Urine Tests
Blood and urine tests are done to detect signs of infection and to rule out other conditions. An ultrasound may also be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
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CT scan
If the diagnosis is unclear after initial examination and ultrasound, a CT scan may be performed for a more accurate evaluation.
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Pregnancy Test
A pregnancy test may be advised in female patients to exclude pregnancy-related causes of abdominal pain.
Before Surgery
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Your doctor may advise routine investigations such as blood tests, ECG, chest X-ray, and ultrasound before surgery.
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Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, as some medicines may need to be stopped before surgery.
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If you are a smoker, you will be advised to stop smoking before surgery to support proper healing and recovery.
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You will need to remain fasting (no food or drink) for a specific period before the surgery.
After Surgery
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You may be discharged within 24–36 hours after surgery, depending on your recovery.
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Your doctor will usually recommend starting with a liquid diet, gradually shifting to solid foods.
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Mild pain or discomfort at the surgical site is normal, especially while standing or moving, and it usually improves within a week.
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Keep the surgical incision clean and dry at all times, and use a waterproof dressing while bathing to protect the wound.
How to Prevent Appendicitis?
There is no proven way to completely prevent appendicitis. However, a healthy diet rich in fiber may help reduce the risk. This includes fruits, vegetables, oats, brown rice, whole wheat, and other whole grains.
Precautions After Surgery :
Although appendicitis surgery is generally safe, there is still a small risk of complications such as infection or internal injury. Watch for the following warning signs and contact a doctor immediately if they occur:
Do watch out for these signs and contact a doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:
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Persistent fever with chills
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Diarrhea
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Bleeding from the stool or surgical incision
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Swelling with pain at the surgical site
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Severe abdominal cramps
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Repeated vomiting
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Inability to pass stool for 2–3 days after surgery
APPENDICITIS SPECIALISTS DOCTORS
Dr. ABCD
MBBS,
10 yrs of experience
Dr. ABCD
MBBS,
10 yrs of experience
Dr. ABCD
MBBS,
10 yrs of experience
Surgery
Surgery is the standard treatment for appendicitis and is known as an appendectomy. After diagnosis, your doctor will review all medical reports and may recommend surgery if there are signs of infection or risk of appendix rupture to prevent further complications.
If you experience symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain and fever, surgery is often advised. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the appendix to treat the condition and prevent recurrence.
SEVERITY
Grade I
Early Appendicitis
Grade II
Suppurative Appendicitis
Grade III
Gangrenous Appendicitis
Grade IV
Perforated/Ruptured Appendicitis
Grade V
Phlegmonous Appendicitis / Abscess