Appendicitis, the inflammation of the appendix, is a medical emergency requiring quick attention. If untreated, it can rupture and cause severe complications.
What is Appendicitis?
The appendix is a small, tube-shaped organ attached to the large intestine. While its function is not entirely understood, it can become inflamed due to infection, obstruction, or unknown causes. If inflamed, it can cause significant pain and requires swift medical treatment to prevent complications.
Symptoms of appendicitis typically start with a dull pain around the navel, progressing to sharp pain in the lower right abdomen. Other signs include:
These symptoms often worsen over a few hours, making it essential to seek medical help quickly.
Appendicitis can result from:
Immediate medical attention is essential if you experience severe abdominal pain, significantly if it worsens in the lower right side. Delaying treatment can lead to a burst appendix, causing life-threatening complications like peritonitis (abdominal infection) or abscesses.
Diagnosing appendicitis involves a combination of physical exams, imaging, and lab tests. Common diagnostics include:
Do's:
Don'ts:
Disclaimer:
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