Chronic appendicitis is an infrequent flare-up of the appendix. It progresses at a much slower rate than an acute appendicitis attack and can sometimes be mistaken for other illnesses such as the flu or an upset stomach. Unlike acute appendicitis where the pain escalates quickly from dull to sharp, symptoms of chronic appendicitis can linger for several days.
Pain
Acute appendicitis is characterized by a stabbing pain that mostly radiates out from the lower left quadrant of the abdomen. Chronic appendicitis on the other hand, may start with a dull ache that slowly increases in severity and radiates throughout the stomach. Because this pain is similar to that of other gastrointestinal issues, it may be overlooked as appendicitis. The location of the pain may vary according to where the appendix is located in each individual. Normally, it is located in the lower left quadrant of the stomach, a short distance from where the small and large intestines meet. It is attached to the large intestine close to where it begins to ascend upward. According to Medical Symptoms, the pain may also be caused by a blockage near the appendix that leads to a bacterial infection in the large intestine. This blockage and the ensuing infection may be the reason for the flare up of the appendix.
Fever
When an appendix flares, it can release toxins into the system that may lead to peritonitis, or an infection in the stomach cavity. One of the main defenses when the body is fighting an infection is a fever, which is the immune system's way of killing off unwanted intruders. A low grade fever that lasts several days can be a symptom of several different diseases. According to Symptoms of Appendicitis, when accompanied by pain, fatigue and other gastrointestinal problems, appendicitis should be ruled out by a physician. Chronic or acute, appendicitis can be dangerous if left untreated.
Fatigue
With chronic appendicitis, as with any chronic or lingering condition, the body is placed under stress for varying amounts of time. This causes fatigue. Chronic appendicitis may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms may also be indicators of a bacterial infection in the body. As the immune system fights the infection, fatigue and exhaustion may occur. When these symptoms linger for more than a week and show no signs of clearing on their own, medical attention should be received as soon as possible. According to Symptoms of Appendicitis, a blockage or obstruction may also be partially to blame for the infection and subsequent appendix flare-up. As long as the blockage remains in place, the infection will be allowed to spread, causing further fatigue and illness.
References
- Medical Symptoms: Chronic Appendicitis
- Appendicitis Symptoms: Chronic Appendiicitis
- Symptoms of Appendicitis.org
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing: Balch, 2006
