Your appendix is an unused organ in your lower abdomen. It is an organ that may at one time have had a use, but currently there is no known use of the appendix. Unfortunately, if your appendix becomes inflamed, you will begin suffering from appendicitis symptoms and need to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Key Points
- Appendicitis is usually characterized by pain in the lower abdomen. Abdominal swelling can also come with appendicitis.
- Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency; if you or someone in your household experiences the symptoms, get them to the emergency room as soon as possible.
- Recovery from appendicitis is usually quick and easy.
Appendicitis Symptoms
Early on, you will begin to experience appendicitis symptoms that are very mild. The most recognizable symptom will be an aching pain near your navel. As your appendicitis progresses, it begins to shift to the lower right of your abdomen. During this time, the inflammation will be spreading to nearby tissues and the pain will become stronger and sharper.
The pain will eventually settle in your lower abdomen, near where your appendix is located. This point is located halfway between your upper right pelvic bone and your navel. This point is known as the McBurney point. Pain in this area is the leading sign that you have appendicitis.
You may also experience other appendicitis symptoms along with the pain. They are important to pay attention to, especially in children who may not be able to communicate the pain location properly. These appendicitis symptoms include abdominal swelling, diarrhea, and constipation. There may be a loss of appetite accompanied by a low grade fever. Likewise, appendicitis sufferers may experience a lack of ability to pass gas.
It's important to seek out medical treatment if you suspect appendicitis or if you or your family member is suffering from these appendicitis symptoms. Prompt medical treatment is essential in all appendicitis cases.
Prognosis with Appendicitis
Appendicitis can be scary, especially for children. Prompt medical care is essential, but this condition is fully treatable. In order to treat appendicitis, the appendix will need to be removed. If your appendix did not burst, recovery usually only takes a few days. If your appendix did burst, recovery will be longer and antibiotics may be necessary.
You should not need to make any changes to your diet or lifestyle. You will likely need to take it easy for a couple of weeks while you recover, but unless your appendix burst this should not be a difficult condition to recover from. If your symptoms continue after your appendix has been removed, call your doctor immediately.
It is important that you do not ignore your appendicitis symptoms. Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency. A burst appendix can be fatal. If you or someone in your family experiences the symptoms of appendicitis, it is critical that you get them to the emergency room as soon as possible.
Familiarize yourself with these symptoms so that you can identify appendicitis quickly and effectively. A quick and correct diagnosis could save a life.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.