The appendix is a small, worm-shaped organ attached to the large intestine. It has no known use in modern man and can become infected, a condition known as appendicitis. This can occur when stool becomes trapped in the appendix. Appendicitis may also begin as an infection from another part of the body, from parasites in the gastrointestinal tract, from enlarged lymph material or from a tumor. An infected appendix requires immediate medical attention as the appendix can rupture and lead to peritonitis and death.
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, appendicitis is most common among people aged 10 to 30. It can occur at any age but is rare in infants, says KidsHealth.org. Seek medical attention right away if you have signs of appendicitis. Expect to receive a physical examination and other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and if you are diagnosed with appendicitis, your appendix may be surgically removed. This is known as an appendectomy.
Abdominal pain
An infected appendix causes abdominal pain that normally begins as an aching pain around the navel. The pain gradually moves to the right lower quadrant of the abdomen and becomes more sharp. The pain comes on suddenly and worsens within a few hours. The pain intensifies upon walking, moving around, and coughing or sneezing. You may feel a need to hold the painful area to keep it still. Pregnant women and children may experience appendicitis pain in a different place than the right lower quadrant.
Tenderness and Rebound Pain
A symptom of appendicitis is tenderness in the right lower quadrant. According to Mayo Clinic, the physician may gently press the area in question to note if sharp pain is felt upon its release. She may perform other tests involving pressure or movement to determine the cause of your pain.
Loss of Appetite, Nausea and Vomiting
You may feel nauseated and vomit. You may lose your appetite and feel unable to eat. The nausea may continue until the appendicitis resolves. Staying nourished may become difficult due to repeated vomiting.
Abdominal Distention
Appendicitis may cause your abdomen to become swollen or distended. The abdominal distention may be visible and the skin over the abdomen may feel tighter than usual. Alternatively, you may feel bloated without any visible outward change.
Constipation and Diarrhea
An infected appendix may lead to either constipation or diarrhea, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse. You may also feel as if you need to pass gas or have a bowel movement but be unable to do so.
Need to Urinate Frequently
You may feel a need to urinate frequently. This symptom is common in children with appendicitis.
Late Symptoms
When an infected appendix is allowed to persist without treatment, you may develop a low-grade fever of around 100 degrees F, chills and shaking. Your fever may worsen as the infection continues.
