Appendicitis
Appendicitis is swelling and infection of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large bowel on the lower right side of the belly. It is most common between the ages of 10 and 30 but can happen at any age. It is an emergency: without treatment the appendix can burst within 1 to 2 days and cause a dangerous infection inside the belly. Treatment is usually an operation.
Symptoms
- Pain that starts around the navel and moves to the lower right side of the belly
- Pain that gets worse when moving, coughing or walking
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mild fever
- Constipation or diarrhoea in some people
Causes
- Blockage of the opening of the appendix, often by hard stool or swollen lymph tissue
- Infection that follows the blockage
- In many cases the exact cause is not known
Prevention
- There is no sure way to prevent appendicitis
- A diet rich in fibre may lower the risk
- Getting medical care early stops the appendix from bursting
Treatment
- An operation to remove the appendix (open or keyhole surgery)
- Antibiotics given in hospital before and after the operation
- In some mild cases, antibiotics alone under close hospital care
- Do not take laxatives or use an enema if you suspect appendicitis
- Do not start antibiotics or other prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Can appendicitis go away on its own?
It should never be treated at home. Even if the pain eases, the appendix may have burst, which is very dangerous. Anyone with suspected appendicitis needs to be seen at a hospital.
Can I live normally without an appendix?
Yes. The appendix is not needed for digestion, and people live completely normal lives after it is removed.