Acute Appendicitis Symptoms

The appendix, in case you were not aware, is not deemed to be an essential structure of the body. In other words, it has no known essential purpose for survival. However, this does not stop it from causing trouble. This structure is a tubular structure or appendage (about 3 ½ inches long) that projects out from the large intestine. It looks like a finger-shaped pouch, and is located on the lower right side of the abdomen. Certain factors such as obstruction (caused by food wastes or stool), a cancer or some kind of infection can result in inflammation and pus formation within the appendix. This condition is known as appendicitis. It is a medical emergency which, if left untreated may lead to a serious infection of the abdominal cavity. This may occur when the inflamed appendix bursts and causes the contents of the intestines and pathogens to leak into the abdominal cavity.

Symptoms Typical of Appendicitis

The characteristic symptoms that may indicate the inflammation of the appendix may include:

• The very first acute appendix symptom is a pain that originates in the navel and then worsens as it radiates towards the lower right area of the abdomen.
• Due to the location of the inflamed appendix, the lower right abdominal area may be tender to touch and feel.
• If the lower right abdominal area is applied with pressure and released suddenly, then the person may be hit by a sharp pain in the same place.
• The pain may be followed by nausea and/or vomiting.
• Activities like walking, laughing, running, jogging, coughing, lifting weights, may make the pain worse.
• Poor appetite, constipation, and inability to pass gas.
• A low-grade fever (37 degree Celsius - 38 degree Celsius) may accompany pain.
• Diarrhea, swelling of the abdomen, painful urination, and cramps may be the other appendicitis symptoms.

Know that people with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, obesity or cancer may not have all such symptoms of appendicitis. And even in the elderly, the pain may not be too severe, hence they do not suspect that they may be suffering from a condition such as appendicitis. So, by the time they realize it, their appendix might already be close to rupturing. So it is important for them to go for a medical diagnosis if they have a fever, and even a slight pain in the right abdominal area.

Treatment

Regarding the treatment, a surgery to remove the diseased appendix is the typical choice. The procedure is known as appendectomy, and is done under general anesthesia. This can be performed as an open surgery or with the help of a laparoscopic operation. The former involves removal of the appendix by making an incision (5-10 cm) in the abdomen, while in the latter, the surgeon makes several small incisions. The patient may have to spend a day or two in the hospital, post the surgery, and generally it requires 2-3 weeks to recuperate.

While the patient is recovering, he/she must avoid strenuous activities, brace his/her abdomen before laughing, coughing, and take rest whenever he/she feels the need. It is also important to start moving around slowly. Short walks are appropriate. And finally, before returning to work or school, it is better to consult a doctor first.