Understanding Appendicitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

The appendix, or vermiform appendix, is a vestigial organ in our body that might have served a functional purpose for our ancestors but does not serve any known essential function in modern humans. It is a muscular structure in the body located as an attachment to the large intestine. It appears as a pouch-like structure in the lower right part of the abdomen. The appendix can develop inflammation, and the condition is called appendicitis. Learn more about it here to understand the associated symptoms clearly and to proceed with medical intervention.  

What is Appendicitis?  

Appendicitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation, swelling, or soreness of the appendix. The condition is a medical emergency and is associated with acute, sudden, and intense pain in the lower right side of the abdomen, i.e., at the location of the appendix. The inflammation progresses with the pain, along with an increase in the severity of the condition. Appendicitis can occur to anyone. However, the common age of occurrence is between 10 and 30.  

Symptoms of Appendicitis 

The symptoms of appendicitis are listed as follows:  

• Sudden pain at the location of the appendix  
• Pain begins around the belly button and, moves towards the lower right belly, and worsens  
• Pain increases with walking, coughing, or other jarring movements  
• Low-grade fever, which may increase with the progression of appendicitis  
• Nausea and vomiting  
• Diarrhea or constipation  
• Loss of appetite  
• More than usual peeing  
• Belly bloating  
• Gas  
• Sudden confusion (in older people) 

Causes of Appendicitis  

Generally, appendicitis occurs due to blockage by something, which leads to swelling.  The number of bacteria, already present in the large intestine and now trapped in the appendix, multiplies, thus leading to infection, inflammation, and filling with pus.  

The overall scenario may ultimately lead to the bursting of the appendix or breaking it open within 48 to 72 hours of exhibiting the symptoms. This will lead to leakage of the unsterile fluid into the belly, resulting in peritonitis, a serious infection.  

The blockage is highly likely to be caused by stool or might also happen due to a tumor. Other reasons for obstruction and issues in the appendix include:  

• Hardened poop or appendix stones 
• Swelling of lymphoid tissue  
• Inflammation in the colon due to infection or inflammatory bowel disease  
• Parasites or cystic fibrosis can also lead to blockage  

Stages of Appendicitis  

There are 4 stages of appendicitis progression. Let’s begin by understanding what is the first stage of appendicitis followed by the subsequent stages:   

Stage 1: Acute Appendicitis  

It is the early inflammation stage, which involves vague abdominal pain, loss of appetite, mild fever, nausea and vomiting, and discomfort associated with movements.  

Stage 2; Suppurative Appendicitis 

The untreated inflammation progresses to result in abdominal swelling, increased pain, high fever, and constipation. The lack of medical intervention at this stage can prevent future complications and appendix rupture.  

Stage 3: Gangrenous Appendicitis  

Here, the tissue death begins due to a lack of blood flow. The symptoms here include intense pain, severe abdominal tenderness, high fever, chills, weakness, and fatigue. The immediate removal of the appendix is necessary to avoid peritonitis.  

Stage 4: Perforated Appendicitis  

It is the severe stage of complicated appendicitis marked by rupture of the appendix and spread of infection into the abdomen. Individuals at this stage would be in a life-threatening condition. It is marked by sudden and sharp pain, the spread of infection causing peritonitis, and the risk of sepsis.  

Treatment of Appendicitis  

The possibility of appendicitis getting treated itself is possible but less likely. It can happen if the blockage is removed or the lymphoid tissue swelling has subsided. However, assuming the occurrence of such scenarios should not be self-assumed. 

The medical intervention is necessary for effective 4 stages of appendicitis treatment, which involves the following measures depending on the stage:  

• Medication: It involves the use of antibiotics to prevent infection or treat the same before surgery. The doctor may also prescribe pain relief medication as needed.  
• Surgery: Removal of the appendix is a safe and effective option to get rid of appendicitis. Referred to as appendectomy, it is the most common surgery that can be performed in a minimally invasive manner, such as laparoscopic surgery, to remove the appendix. Generally, doctors prescribe it within 24 hours of the diagnosis, as the appendix may rupture within 36 hours of the first symptoms.   
• Abscess drainage: This is another step that may be performed in case of excessive abscess buildup after the rupture of the appendix. The doctor evaluates the requirements for this procedure.  

Conclusion  

The appendix is a vestigial organ attached to the large intestine and present in the lower right abdomen. The inflammation in this organ is referred to as appendicitis. The condition is categorized into 4 stages of appendicitis that increase in severity with the progression of the stage.  

The presence of associated signs and symptoms must be paid heed to and brought to medical attention immediately to avoid further complications. The 4 stages of appendicitis treatment are easily and effectively possible under expert guidance at Hinduja Hospital, Mahim. Book an appointment now for accurate medical supervision of your health.  

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) 

What food can cause appendicitis?  

While food does not directly cause appendicitis, certain dietary habits may increase the risk by contributing to digestive issues or constipation. These include spicy and acidic foods, sugar and refined carbohydrates, processed meat and fried foods, high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, and high-lactose dairy products.  

How is appendicitis diagnosed?  

Appendicitis is diagnosed through a physical exam, blood test to check the presence of infection, urine test to rule out kidney stones as the causative agent of pain, and imaging tests to confirm the appendicitis.  

Which medical conditions’ symptoms match with appendicitis?  

Some of the conditions with the same symptoms as appendicitis are endometriosis, kidney stone, pelvic inflammatory disease, pancreatitis, ovarian cyst, intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, gastroenteritis, UTI, and diverticulitis of the colon.