Appendicitis: symptoms, causes and Treatment
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It can become serious if the appendix ruptures, so early medical attention is important.
What causes Appendicitis?
Appendicitis often starts when the opening of the appendix become blocked. This can allow bacteria to multiply, causing swelling and inflammation.
Common symptoms
The main symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain, often beginning around the belly button and moving to the lower-right abdomen.
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Fever.
- Abdominal tenderness.
- Constipation or diarrhea in some people.
Symptoms can vary, and not everyone experience all of them.
How is it diagnosed?
Doctors may use :
- Physical examination.
- Blood and urine tests.
- Ultrasound.
- CT scan or MRI when necessary.
How is Appendicitis Treated?
Treatment depends on the case. Appendectomy, surgery to remove the appendix, isa common treatment. Antibiotics may also be used, and in selected uncomplicated cases they may sometimes be used without immediate surgery.
When should you get help?
Seek urgent medical attention if you have severe or worsening abdominal pain, particularly with fever, vomiting or loss of appetite.
Untreated appendicitis can cause the appendix to rupture and lead to serious infection.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professionals.
What causes Appendicitis?
Appendicitis often starts when the opening of the appendix become blocked. This can allow bacteria to multiply, causing swelling and inflammation.
Common symptoms
The main symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain, often beginning around the belly button and moving to the lower-right abdomen.
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Fever.
- Abdominal tenderness.
- Constipation or diarrhea in some people.
Symptoms can vary, and not everyone experience all of them.
How is it diagnosed?
Doctors may use :
- Physical examination.
- Blood and urine tests.
- Ultrasound.
- CT scan or MRI when necessary.
How is Appendicitis Treated?
Treatment depends on the case. Appendectomy, surgery to remove the appendix, isa common treatment. Antibiotics may also be used, and in selected uncomplicated cases they may sometimes be used without immediate surgery.
When should you get help?
Seek urgent medical attention if you have severe or worsening abdominal pain, particularly with fever, vomiting or loss of appetite.
Untreated appendicitis can cause the appendix to rupture and lead to serious infection.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professionals.