Summary about Disease
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It is a medical emergency and usually requires surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy). If left untreated, an inflamed appendix can eventually burst, spilling infectious material into the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis, a serious and potentially fatal condition.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of appendicitis include:
Sudden pain that begins on the right side of the lower abdomen
Sudden pain that begins around your navel and often shifts to your lower right abdomen
Pain that worsens if you cough, walk or make other jarring movements
Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Low-grade fever
Constipation or diarrhea
Abdominal bloating
Causes
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes blocked, often by stool, a foreign body, cancer, or infection. This blockage leads to inflammation, swelling, and potentially infection.
Medicine Used
Before surgery:
Antibiotics are given intravenously to fight infection. After surgery:
Pain relievers are given for post-operative pain management.
Antibiotics are continued after surgery, especially if the appendix had ruptured.
Is Communicable
Appendicitis is not communicable. It is not caused by a virus or bacteria that can be passed from person to person.
Precautions
There are no known preventative measures for appendicitis. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a diet rich in fiber, may reduce the risk of developing appendicitis, but this has not been definitively proven. Early diagnosis and treatment are the best precautions against serious complications.
How long does an outbreak last?
Appendicitis isn't an outbreak-related disease. The symptoms can develop quickly, typically over a period of hours to a day or two. If untreated, the appendix can rupture within 48 to 72 hours after symptoms begin.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Physical exam: The doctor will examine your abdomen to assess pain and tenderness.
Blood test: To check for signs of infection.
Urine test: To rule out a urinary tract infection or kidney stones.
Imaging tests: Such as CT scan or ultrasound, to visualize the appendix and surrounding structures.
Timeline of Symptoms
Initial Stage: Often starts with pain around the navel.
Progression: Pain migrates to the lower right abdomen. Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite may develop.
Worsening: Pain intensifies, and fever may develop. Abdomen becomes tender to the touch.
Rupture (If Untreated): Sudden relief of pain followed by severe abdominal pain, distension, and signs of peritonitis.
Important Considerations
Appendicitis is a medical emergency requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications such as peritonitis and sepsis.
Not all cases of appendicitis present with classic symptoms, especially in children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix) is the standard treatment.
Laparoscopic appendectomy (minimally invasive surgery) is often preferred when possible.