Appendicitis is the medical term used for irritation, inflammation and infection of the appendix. The appendix is a tube that stems outward from the large intestine. Early in life the appendix helps the immune system fight infection but after the first few years of life it stops functioning, allowing other organs to take over disease fighting. Appendicitis in toddlers, as with any age group, requires immediate medical attention.
Abdominal Pain
Pain in the abdomen is the most common and characteristic symptom of appendicitis. The Children's Hospital Boston points out that every child may experience appendicitis differently. The pain often begins around the belly button and moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. Pain may start suddenly in the right side of the abdomen for some children and it can diminish and increase intermittently. Over time the pain increases and is often exacerbated by any movements including inhaling or putting pressure on the area. If the appendix inflammation isn't treated within 24 to 72 hours, it will likely burst. When the inflamed appendix ruptures the pain will suddenly move throughout the abdomen and become excruitiating.
Stomach Upset
A variety of upset stomach symptoms occur with appendicitis. A toddler may experience nausea or a diminished appetite. Vomiting, diarrhea and even constipation can develop from the tissue inflammation. Small amounts of mucus can be found in the diarrhea due to the inflammation of the appendix and surrounding intestinal tissues. Children younger than 2 years of age are most likely to have stomach bloating along with other common symptoms of appendicitis, according to Kids Health. A child may also develop strong urges to urinate more frequently.
Fever
A child's body temperature can rise slightly above 100 degrees F making her appear flushed. She may also develop chills or shivering from the elevated body temperature. A fever of 104 degrees F is a sign that the appendix may have burst.
