Detecting Appendicitis: Abdominal Pain and Other Symptoms

Appendicitis is an acute medical condition characterised by the inflammation of the appendix, a small, finger-like tube located at the junction of the large and small intestine.

The pain associated with appendicitis usually starts as a general abdominal discomfort and later localises to the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. Early detection and treatment are important to prevent serious complications, such as a ruptured appendix, which can lead to life-threatening infections. In this blog, you will learn everything you need to know about detecting appendicitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Appendicitis?

While abdominal pain is one of the primary indicators of appendicitis, several other symptoms can accompany this condition and are important for a comprehensive diagnosis. These include:

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is one of the primary symptoms of appendicitis, often starting suddenly around the navel and shifting to the lower right abdomen. This pain typically worsens over 12 to 24 hours, becoming sharp and persistent. Activities like walking, coughing, or jumping can intensify the discomfort. The progression from a diffuse ache to localised sharp pain is key in identifying appendicitis from other abdominal issues.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting, which often accompany the onset of abdominal pain, are responses of the body to internal inflammation. This reaction is part of the gastrointestinal system’s response to the irritation and can significantly affect comfort levels.

Fever

A low-grade fever typically accompanies appendicitis, escalating slightly as the condition progresses. A higher fever can be a sign of a ruptured appendix, indicating a more severe infection that requires immediate medical attention.

Loss of Appetite

Decreased appetite is a common and early sign of appendicitis, similar to other infections. It often occurs together with different symptoms and can help differentiate appendicitis from less serious digestive complaints.

Constipation or Diarrhoea

Appendicitis may disrupt normal bowel function, resulting in constipation or diarrhoea. These symptoms can be confusing, as they mimic those of a typical stomach bug, but when combined with localised pain and other symptoms, they can indicate appendicitis.

Abdominal Bloating

Swelling in the abdominal area can occur, particularly if the appendix has ruptured. The abdomen may also feel hard or tender to the touch.

Rebound Tenderness

This clinical sign, where pain is felt upon releasing pressure from the abdomen, especially over the lower right side, indicates peritoneal irritation. It is a significant indicator for assessing the likelihood of appendicitis.

Treatment Options for Appendicitis

The treatment for appendicitis is primarily surgical, aiming to remove the inflamed appendix before it bursts, which can lead to severe complications. The standard procedure is an appendectomy, which can be performed using one of two methods:

Laparoscopic Surgery

This minimally invasive surgery involves making small incisions in the abdomen to insert surgical tools and a camera for appendix removal. The benefits of this method include less postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay, and quicker recovery.

Open Surgery

In cases where the appendix has ruptured or if the patient has an abscess, an open surgery might be necessary. This involves a larger incision to allow the surgeon to clean the abdominal cavity of any infectious material and remove the appendix.

In addition to surgical treatment, antibiotics may be used, especially if the appendix has ruptured or there is an abscess. Antibiotics are administered to eliminate any remaining infection and prevent further complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical attention for appendicitis symptoms as early as possible to prevent severe complications. If you experience sudden abdominal pain that progressively worsens, especially if it shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen, accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

Additionally, signs such as a marked decrease in appetite, changes in bowel habits, or severe abdominal tenderness should prompt an urgent medical evaluation. Early intervention is key to effective treatment and can significantly reduce the risk of a ruptured appendix.

Conclusion

Early detection of appendicitis is important for effective treatment and preventing serious complications. Prompt surgical intervention is typically the most effective method to address this common, yet potentially life-threatening, condition.

If you are experiencing pain, do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure you receive the correct diagnosis and treatment.