The appendix, a small pouch that projects out from the colon like a finger, has no known purpose in the body. Even so, it takes center stage when it becomes inflamed and filled with pus in the condition called appendicitis. According to the National Institutes of Health, appendicitis is caused by an obstruction due to mucus buildup in the appendiceal lumen and an abnormal degree of bacterial growth leading to infection. Appendicitis most commonly flares up in people between the ages of 10 and 30, especially males, but it can strike anyone without warning.
Painful Symptoms of Appendicitis
Appendicitis pain is strong enough to wake a sleeper in the middle of the night. According to the Cleveland Clinic, appendicitis usually begins as pain near the navel that moves to the lower right abdomen (young children and pregnant women may feel pain elsewhere, however). Over the next 6 to 12 hours, pain increases, possibly to severe levels. If gentle pressure is applied to the painful area and then released, causing increased pain, this may indicate appendicitis. The pain typically worsens when moving around, coughing, sneezing or breathing deeply.
Pain Relief Considerations
In some cases, appendicitis pain can be relieved a bit by lying on one side and pulling up the knees, but it is important not to take laxatives or enemas intended to relieve constipation. Pain medications are also discouraged because it is important to be able to give an accurate description of the pain to a physician.
Other Symptoms
Appendicitis sufferers can also experience a number of symptoms beyond the abdominal pain. These can include abdominal swelling, nausea, vomiting, constipation and trapped gas, diarrhea, appetite loss, and a fever less than 100 degrees.
Severe Symptoms
Symptoms of even greater concern include uncontrollable vomiting, dizziness, blood in one's urine or vomit, or sharply increased abdominal pain. These latter signs are nothing to take lightly. The National Institutes of Health warn that "appendicitis is a medical emergency that requires immediate care." When in doubt, call for medical help.
Diagnosis
A physician makes an examination that includes a rectal exam as well as blood and urine tests, and possibly X-rays and ultrasound. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, its degree of severity determines the next steps of treatment. The patient may be sent home for a time or kept in the hospital for 12 to 24 hours of observation. In a severe case of appendicitis, the appendix may rupture, leading to life-threatening peritonitis (inflammation) of the abdomen or an abscess. To avoid such dangerous complications, the organ may be removed surgically, either in a traditional appendectomy or a less invasive laparoscopy. Diagnosis begins with recognizing symptoms.
