Appendicitis is an acute medical condition that occurs when the appendix, a hollow finger-shaped sac attached to the large intestine, gets inflamed and full of pus. While anyone can have an appendix attack, the Mayo Clinic notes that it occurs most frequently in those between 10 to 30 years of age. The human appendix is not considered an essential organ because it does not perform any major function.
Lower Right Abdominal Pain
Appendicitis pain typically begins near the belly button and ends up in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen with discomfort increasing over 12 to 18 hours. When pressure is applied to that area, severe pain known as rebound tenderness will be experienced. Additionally, it is common during the exam for the patient to respond by guarding, that is, the patient's abdominal muscles will tense up as the doctor begins to touch and examine the abdominal region. The pain gets worse with movement.
The worsening of pain over several hours is a sign that one should seek medical attention immediately. This is critical in order to prevent the appendix from rupturing. If a rupture occurs, the infection is no longer confined to the appendix, but instead spreads into the entire abdominal cavity. This is a life-threatening, emergency situation.
Gastrointestinal Distress
It is likely that appendicitis and the pain it produces will irritate the stomach and intestines, so bowel movements may be affected. One can have a sick feeling much like an upset stomach that may be accompanied by nausea with or without vomiting. Diarrhea or being constipated are other possible symptoms that may develop.
Temperature
Bacterial pathogens do not proliferate in a host's environment with high temperatures, which is a function of fever. Initially, the fever may be low-grade. However, as the appendicitis worsens and becomes more inflamed, the fever will rise. Chills or sweating can be expected.
The increasing severity of abdominal pain along with other symptoms are cause for immediate action. If these signs should appear during the weekend or one evening during the week it is advised not to wait until the next day or longer---go to an emergency room.
