Signs You Have Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a common medical condition that is characterised by the inflammation of the appendix. Recognising the early symptoms of appendicitis is essential for timely treatment and preventing serious complications.
In this blog, we will discuss appendicitis symptoms to help you understand what to look for when seeking timely intervention.
What is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is a medical condition that happens when the appendix becomes inflamed.
The appendix is a small, finger-shaped structure located in the lower right side of the abdomen. It is attached to the large intestine.
If left untreated, the appendix can rupture, leading to serious complications.
What Appendicitis Symptoms to Look For?
The symptoms of appendicitis typically begin with a dull pain in the middle of your abdomen, around your belly button. After a few hours, this pain usually shifts to the lower right side of your abdomen and becomes more intense.
You might notice that the pain worsens with movement, coughing, or even pressing on the area. Some people find it easier to tolerate the pain when they pull their knees up to their chest.
Other Symptoms of Appendicitis to Watch For:
In addition to abdominal pain, you might also experience:
- Generalised abdominal pain
- Feeling or actually being sick
- Sudden loss of appetite
- A high temperature indicating a fever
- Urinating frequently
- Change in bowel habits, indicating constipation or diarrhoea
- Sudden confusion (in older people)
Remember: While these are the most common symptoms, it’s important to note that appendicitis can present differently in some individuals. If you’re concerned about your health, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor.
Why is Appendicitis a Medical Emergency?
The urgency of appendicitis stems from the rapid inflammation of the appendix, which can rupture within 24 hours of symptom onset. An inflamed appendix can spread infection into the abdominal cavity, and burst leading to abscess, pelvic collection, peritonitis and sepsis.
While some cases may respond to antibiotics, surgery (appendectomy) is the preferred treatment due to its safety and effectiveness. Given the risks of rupture, appendectomy is typically the safest option. Patients should seek medical opinion at the earliest. A CT scan helps confirm the diagnosis.
What is the Surgical Method to Remove the Appendix?
An appendectomy is a surgical method to remove the appendix. This procedure is usually performed as a treatment for appendicitis, an inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
There are two surgical approaches for appendix removal:
- Laparoscopic Appendectomy: This is now the standard way of removing the appendix. This minimally invasive technique involves 3 small incisions along with the use of a camera and specialised instruments to remove the appendix. Patients usually experience less post-operative pain and a quicker recovery with this approach. Most patients can be discharged the following day. Most can return to work in about a week.
- Open Appendectomy: A procedure in which an approximately 5 cm incision is made in the lower right abdomen to remove the appendix. This is no longer the common approach. This method is often used in complicated cases or with significant inflammation.
Consult Dr Ashok Bohra for Appendectomy in Dubai
When considering an appendectomy in Dubai, Dr Ashok Bohra stands out as the ideal choice. With 30+ years of experience, he is a trusted GI surgeon known for his exceptional surgical skills and patient-centred approach.
He takes the time to understand your unique medical needs, offering personalised care that truly caters to you. His commitment to excellence ensures that you receive thorough and compassionate treatment throughout your journey, making him the preferred choice for anyone seeking high-quality appendectomy services.
FAQ
There is no specific food known to cause appendicitis.
The four stages of appendicitis are: Initial (pain near the belly button), Inflammatory (pain localises to the lower right abdomen), Suppurative (pus accumulation), and Rupture (appendix bursts).
In rare cases, appendicitis can resolve on its own. But you should always consult a doctor if you think you have appendicitis. The gold standard and the only safe treatment is removal of the appendix.
Appendicitis can progress rapidly, often within 24 to 36 hours from symptom onset. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent complications like rupture and sepsis.
