Appendicitis is an inflammation or infection of the appendix. It can cause pain and other problems that start quickly and get worse. Treatment should start right away to prevent serious problems.
Your appendix
The appendix is a small pouch about the size of your little finger. It hangs off the colon (large intestine). The purpose of the appendix is unclear, although it is thought to be part of the immune system, similar to lymph nodes. If it gets blocked (obstructed), it may get infected.
Symptoms of appendicitis
Symptoms tend to start quickly, often over 1 to 2 days. They can include:
- Pain that starts in the center of your belly and moves to your lower right side
- Worse pain and pressure on your side when you walk
- Stomach upset (nausea) and vomiting
- Low appetite
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Either diarrhea or constipation
Treatment
- Antibiotic medicine. In some cases, your doctor may advise treatment with antibiotics. This may be a choice if the appendix has not ruptured and you don't have other problems or risks. Using antibiotics may help keep you from needing surgery.
- Surgery. Removing the appendix with surgery is common. This is called an appendectomy. This is often the best choice. It's best to remove the appendix before it bursts. If the appendix bursts, it can cause severe health problems. Not having an appendix shouldn't affect your long-term health.
Related Articles
Understanding Colitis
Colitis is when a part of your colon becomes inflamed or swollen. Colitis can be caused by infections, certain medicines, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Esophageal Spasm
When the muscles of the esophagus tighten or contract abnormally, it is known as spasm. Esophageal spasm is more common in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Large Bowel Obstruction
A large bowel obstruction occurs when part or all of your large intestine is blocked. As a result, waste can't move through your bowel correctly and out of the body. You must be treated right away to manage the blockage.
Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis (also called delayed gastric emptying) happens when the stomach takes longer than normal to empty of food. For many people, gastroparesis is a lifelong condition. Read on to learn more about gastroparesis and how it can be managed.
