Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix and is treated as an emergency because of the possibility of rupture. Sharon Phelan, M.D., of the University of New Mexico, states that surgery to remove the appendix is the most common cause of surgery during pregnancy. It can be difficult to diagnose appendicitis during pregnancy because many of the signs and symptoms are the same as those that normally occur in pregnancy, and the symptoms are the same as in nonpregnant women.
Pain
Pain is a common complaint in appendicitis. The University of Maryland Medical Center states the pain begins near the navel but travels to the right lower side of the abdomen. Activities such as coughing, sneezing and taking deep breaths can make the pain worse. During pregnancy, this symptom can be confused with persistent round ligament pain on the right side, explains Nicole Whitehead, D.C., of Advanced Spinal Fitness in Cornelius, N.C.
Decreased Appetite
A loss or decrease in appetite often occurs in pregnant women presenting with appendicitis notes NYU Langone Medical Center. Unfortunately, many pregnant women also experience a decrease in appetite, especially during the first trimester due to morning sickness.
Nausea and Vomiting
Pregnant women with appendicitis may experience digestive issues such as nausea and vomiting. Diagnosis of appendicitis in pregnant women based on this sign can be difficult because pregnancy often causes nausea and vomiting which for some women may last throughout the entire pregnancy.
Low-Grade Fever
A low-grade fever may accompany other signs and symptoms associated with appendicitis as the infection increases, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. A fever is the body's way of fighting off infection. Fevers are not commonly associated with pregnancy.
Change in Bowel Habits and Abdominal Swelling
According to NYU Langone Medical Center, patients with appendicitis may experience a change in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea. The abdomen can also become swollen when appendicitis is present, though this sign is more difficult to distinguish in pregnant women due to the increasing size of the uterus.
References
- University of New Mexico: Appendicitis In Pregnancy
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Appendicitis
- NYU Langone Medical Center: Appendicitis
- MayoClinic.com: Appendicitis Symptoms
- Nicole Whitehead, DC, Advanced Spinal Fitness, Cornelius, North Carolina
