As a result of inflammation and infection of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine, appendicitis occurs. In addition to severe pain in the lower right side of the abdomen, appendicitis can also cause fever, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. In order to prevent serious complications, appendicitis must be treated promptly.
Causes of appendicitis
Appendicitis may be caused by a blockage or obstruction of the opening of the appendix due to a variety of reasons, including:
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Fecal matter or stool that gets trapped in the appendix
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Foreign objects, such as seeds, stones, or worms that enter the appendix
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Infections caused by bacteria or viruses that invade the appendix
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Inflammation of the lymphatic tissue that lines the appendix
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Genetic factors that make some people more prone to appendicitis
A blocked or infected appendix becomes swollen and filled with pus, causing pressure and irritation in the surrounding organs and tissues. The appendix can rupture or perforate if left untreated, causing a life-threatening infection called peritonitis in the abdomen if left untreated.
Symptoms of appendicitis
It is important to remember that appendicitis symptoms can vary depending on the age and condition of the patient. The primary symptom is pain in the lower right area of the abdomen. The pain usually begins near the navel and moves to the lower right area. It may be sharp or dull, constant or intermittent, mild or severe, and worsens with movement, coughing, sneezing, or breathing.
Other symptoms of appendicitis may include:
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Fever and chills
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Nausea and vomiting
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Loss of appetite and weight loss
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Diarrhea or constipation
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Bloating and gas
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Difficulty urinating or passing gas
Diagnosis of appendicitis
In order to diagnose appendicitis, a doctor will ask about the patient's medical history, symptoms, and how they affect daily activities. In addition to performing a physical exam, the doctor may also order some tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes of abdominal pain. These tests may include:
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The level of white blood cells and other markers of infection and inflammation can be measured with blood tests.
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Tests of the urine can check for signs of appendicitis or urinary tract infections.
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Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or X-ray are imaging tests that provide images of the appendix and other organs in the abdomen.
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It involves inserting a thin tube with a camera and light (laparoscope) through a small incision in the abdomen. The laparoscope allows the doctor to see inside the abdomen and examine the appendix.
Treatment of appendicitis
Appendicitis is usually treated with surgery to remove the appendix (appendectomy). This can prevent rupture and peritonitis.
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In open surgery, the appendix is removed through a large incision on the lower right side of the abdomen.
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A laparoscope is inserted through several small incisions in the abdomen to guide the doctor as he removes the appendix with minimal damage to the surrounding tissues.
In comparison to open surgery, laparoscopic surgery has some advantages, such as less pain, faster recovery, smaller scars, and lower infection risk. However, laparoscopic surgery may not be right for everyone, especially if there is a lot of inflammation or infection in the abdomen.
After surgery, antibiotics are continued until the infection is cleared, as well as painkillers to relieve pain and discomfort.
Prevention of appendicitis
Appendicitis is not caused by lifestyle factors. However, some possible ways to reduce the severity of appendicitis include:
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Consuming high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes can help prevent constipation.
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Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids.
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Keep your appendix free of foreign objects, such as seeds, stones, and bones.
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Symptoms of appendicitis or other abdominal problems should be treated promptly.
An appendicitis occurs when a part of the appendix becomes inflamed and infected. Appendicitis can cause severe pain on the lower right side of the abdomen, as well as other symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. With surgery and antibiotics, appendicitis can be treated and cured. It is an emergency that requires prompt treatment to avoid serious complications.
