The appendix is a finger-like appendage attached to the large intestine in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. A blockage may occur in the appendix, which allows bacteria to grow and begin an infection. An infected appendix, referred to as appendicitis, requires surgical removal of the organ in a surgery referred to as an appendectomy. Without proper treatment, the appendix may rupture and cause a severe infection in the abdomen. Recognizing the symptoms associated with appendicitis is important because a rupture may occur in as little as 48 to 72 hours following the initial symptoms, according to TeensHealth from Nemours.
Pain
The first symptom of appendicitis is usually pain, but fewer than 50 percent of individuals suffering from appendicitis will have classic signs of the condition, according to the Merck Manuals. The pain begins suddenly and is severe in nature. The pain may begin around the navel and later shifts and settles in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, also referred to as McBurney's point. The pain increases upon movement, such as coughing or walking, and the affected individual will experience rebound tenderness. Rebound tenderness occurs when pain increases sharply after placing pressure over the lower right portion of the abdomen and quickly removing the pressure. The pain increases in intensity and does not go away without treatment. If the appendix ruptures, the pain usually becomes worse. Children may have a pain throughout the entire abdomen and not have it concentrate in one area. Pregnant women may experience less pain than others with the same condition.
Gastrointestinal Changes
Several changes may occur in the gastrointestinal tract during an infection of the appendix. An individual may experience a lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Some individuals may feel that passing gas or have a bowel movement will help decrease the pain and improve the discomfort, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Diarrhea and abdominal swelling can also occur with appendicitis.
Fever
A fever may accompany the other symptoms associated with appendicitis. The fever may not occur until after symptoms such as nausea and vomiting begin. A low fever of 100 to 101 degrees F is common for people suffering from appendicitis, according to the Merck Manuals. Some individuals do not experience a fever with the infection.
Urinary Changes
In addition to the other symptoms, some individuals may experience difficulty with urination during an infection of the appendix. Urinary symptoms include a need to urinate frequently and painful urination, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
