The appendix is a small, hollow, tube-shaped organ that protrudes from the large intestine. In humans, the appendix is not known to have a particular function. Appendix inflammation, a condition known as appendicitis, can prompt a number of symptoms to develop. Appendicitis can be caused by abdominal trauma, infection or a prior medical condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease. If you experience symptoms of appendix inflammation, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Abdominal Pain
The most common symptom associated with inflammation of the appendix is pain. Painful symptoms typically occur suddenly as a dull ache near the belly button, explains the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Pain associated with appendix inflammation typically migrates from the belly button to the lower right abdomen and becomes progressively worse over a few hours. If you move around, sneeze or cough, the pain can become sharp and noticeably worse. Certain people also experience pain within the lower back or hamstrings as a result of appendix inflammation.
Abdominal Swelling
Irritation and inflammation within the appendix can cause this organ to swell. If this occurs, your abdomen may become tender to the touch and also can appear swollen.
Nausea or Vomiting
Inflammation of the appendix can irritate the large intestine, causing an upset stomach to occur in some patients. You may experience stomach discomfort, nausea or vomiting due to appendix inflammation. These symptoms typically arise after you begin to experience abdominal pain and also can lead to a loss of appetite.
Bowel Irritation
The lining of the large intestine can become irritated and inflamed due to appendicitis. If this occurs, you may have difficulty producing a stool (constipation) or frequently produce loose, watery stools (diarrhea). Such symptoms can also cause a loss of appetite or abdominal cramping, bloating or pain.
Fever
If you develop inflammation within your appendix, you also may experience a low-grade fever, which typically occurs after the appearance of other symptoms, such as abdominal pain or nausea. A fever is part of your body's immune response to help fight off infection. If left untreated, appendix inflammation can cause your fever to increase significantly.
