The appendix is a small pouch connected to the right side of the colon. When it becomes obstructed, it swells up. Bacteria that normally reside in it have nowhere to go, thus creating a closed, infected space in the abdomen. According to the National Digestive Disease Clearinghouse, appendicitis is the leading cause of emergency abdominal surgery. Symptoms often follow a classic pattern. Sometimes they can be very mild in the beginning.
Pain
Pain from an inflamed appendix typically starts in the area of the navel. It worsens over the course of several hours and its location shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen. The pain is often sharp, severe, and develops quickly. It can wake the patient from sleep. Pain worsens when the patient moves or takes a deep breath. Rebound tenderness occurs, meaning that if the lower right abdomen is pressed, then quickly let go, pain gets much worse. According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, in about 50 percent of patients the pain is not localized to the lower right abdomen, but is diffusely spread all over the abdomen, and is also less severe than in the classical presentation.
Other Symptoms
Appendicitis is often accompanied by a feeling of being unwell that develops quickly, over the course of several hours. Common symptoms include nausea and vomiting, constipation and being unable to pass gas. The abdomen can become swollen. Appetite is lost. A low grade fever is usually present.
Symptoms of Ruptured Appendix
If the appendix is not removed in time, it may rupture, leading to infection of the abdominal cavity, known as peritonitis. Symptoms include severe pain and a drop in blood pressure. Cardiovascular collapse and death may occur. An abscess may form around the appendix. Abdominal adhesions can occur, and can later cause entrapment and strangulation of the intestines. Rupture requires prolonged treatment with both antibiotics and surgical measures.
