Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine, becomes inflamed. It is a common medical condition that can develop suddenly and may require prompt treatment. Appendicitis often begins with discomfort around the navel that gradually shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen. Because an untreated inflamed appendix can rupture and cause a serious infection, timely medical evaluation is important.
Appendicitis usually develops when the opening of the appendix becomes blocked. The blockage may occur due to hardened stool, swelling of lymphatic tissue, or, less commonly, other growths or foreign material. Once blocked, bacteria can multiply inside the appendix, causing inflammation and swelling. In some cases, the exact cause cannot be identified. Appendicitis can affect people of different ages, although it is particularly common in children, teenagers, and young adults.
The symptoms of appendicitis can vary, but abdominal pain is the most characteristic sign. Pain may initially occur near the belly button and then become more intense and localized to the lower right abdomen. Patients may also experience loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, mild fever, abdominal swelling, constipation, or diarrhoea. Pain may worsen with walking, coughing, or sudden movement. Since these symptoms can resemble other abdominal conditions, a proper medical assessment is essential.
Diagnosing appendicitis involves a detailed medical history and physical examination, including assessment of abdominal tenderness and pain. Blood tests may be performed to look for signs of infection or inflammation, while urine testing can help rule out certain urinary conditions. Depending on the patient’s age, symptoms, and clinical findings, imaging such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan may be recommended. In women, additional evaluation may sometimes be necessary to distinguish appendicitis from gynaecological conditions with similar symptoms.
Treatment for appendicitis depends on the severity of inflammation and the patient’s overall health. The most common treatment is an appendectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the inflamed appendix. This may be performed through minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery or, in selected situations, through open surgery. Antibiotics are often given to control infection and may be used before and after surgery. In carefully selected cases of uncomplicated appendicitis, antibiotic treatment may be considered as an alternative, although the condition requires close medical supervision because appendicitis can recur or progress.
After treatment, patients are generally advised to follow their doctor’s instructions regarding medication, wound care, diet, physical activity, and follow-up appointments. Recovery after laparoscopic appendectomy is often relatively quick, although the exact recovery period varies from person to person. Keeping the surgical area clean and dry, taking prescribed medicines as directed, and gradually returning to normal activities can support recovery. Patients should avoid strenuous activity until their doctor confirms that it is safe to do so.
If appendicitis is not treated promptly, the appendix may rupture and release infected material into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to peritonitis, an abdominal infection that requires urgent treatment. An abscess may also develop around the appendix. Other potential complications include widespread infection, known as sepsis, bowel obstruction, and complications related to surgery or anaesthesia. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment significantly reduce the risk of serious complications.
Severe or worsening abdominal pain, particularly pain that moves to the lower right side of the abdomen, should not be ignored. Medical attention is especially important when abdominal pain occurs with fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal swelling, or increasing tenderness. If the pain becomes sudden and severe or is accompanied by weakness, confusion, difficulty breathing, or other signs of serious illness, urgent medical care should be sought. Prompt evaluation can help identify appendicitis early and allow appropriate treatment before complications develop.
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