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Appendicitis

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Appendicitis

Animation Movie AvailableRelated Media: Appendectomy

Definition

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a small, tube-like organ that hangs from the large intestine. It has no known function.

This problem needs to be treated right away. Appendicitis can result in the appendix bursting and releasing its contents into the belly. This can lead to a serious infection that can be deadly.

Appendicitis.

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Causes

The exact cause is not known. It is thought to be caused by something trapped in the appendix, such as:

  • Stool (poop)
  • A piece of food
  • Tumors
  • Scar tissue
  • Overgrowth of the lymph tissue of the appendix

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people who are 10 to 30 years of age. The environment may also play a role since this problem happens more often in the summer months.

Other things that may raise the risk are:

  • A family history of appendicitis
  • Infections

Symptoms

Pain is the most common problem. The pain may:

  • Start as discomfort around the belly button before moving to the right side of the belly
  • Slowly get worse over time
  • Worsen when moving, sneezing, coughing, or deep breathing

Other problems may be:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Swelling of the belly
  • A hard belly that hurts when it is touched
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever

If the appendix bursts, a person may have:

  • Severe pain that spreads across the belly
  • A fever that gets higher

Note: Symptoms may be different in infants, children, older adults, and people who are pregnant.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical will be done. It will focus on the belly. This may be enough to suspect appendicitis.

Blood and urine tests may be done to look for changes.

Images may be taken of the belly. This can be done with:

If the diagnosis is not clear, a surgery called a laparoscopy may be done to view inside the belly.

Treatment

Antibiotics can help treat the infection. Those with mild symptoms may get better and not need surgery right away. Most will need surgery to remove their appendix. This is called an appendectomy. It may need to be done right away.

Prevention

There are no known ways to prevent this health problem.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Appendectomy. American College of Surgeons website. Available at: https://www.facs.org/~/media/files/education/patient%20ed/app.ashx.
  • Appendicitis. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/acute-abdomen-and-surgical-gastroenterology/appendicitis.
  • Appendicitis. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/appendicitis.
  • Appendicitis in adolescents and adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/appendicitis-in-adolescents-and-adults.
  • American College of Surgeons. 2021. Antibiotics treat appendicitis as well as an appendectomy in the short term for most patients. [online] Available at: https://www.facs.org/media/press-releases/2020/flum-davidson100520.

Contributors

  • Mary-Beth Seymour, RN
Last Updated:
2023-08-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.