If you ever had a nagging stomach pain that doesn't go away and intensifies around your lower right belly, then there is a high chance you might be having appendicitis. This is a small pouch in your digestive system, which, when inflamed, causes sharp pain. In this context, let's understand what appendicitis is, how to recognize its signs, and what to do if you suspect you might have it.

Understanding Appendicitis

Appendicitis is one of the major digestive issues that require medical intervention. The appendix exists as a thin tube connected to the cecum of your large intestine. The organ is located in the lower right side of your belly. As a young kid, your appendix functioned as a part of your immunity system. 

However, as you grow older, your appendix no longer takes the role of fighting diseases. It's the other organs in the body that take up the role of fighting against infections. 

An appendix can become infected at any time. If not diagnosed and treated by your doctor, it can rupture. This serious condition can occur within 48-72 hours after your body starts showing symptoms. It is more of a medical emergency. If left untreated, the condition could worsen and possibly develop into a more serious, life-threatening illness.

Appendicitis Causes and Risk Factors 

Appendicitis is caused by a blockage in the appendix. This blockage traps bacteria inside, causing inflammation. If such infected bacteria are left untreated, they can spill over into the abdominal cavity and might cause a severe infection (also known as peritonitis). 

Let's explore the causes of appendicitis and the risk factors associated with this medical condition.

• Blockage in the Appendix: The primary cause of appendicitis is a blockage. Multiple reasons can cause this blockage, including fecaliths (hardened pieces of stool in the appendix) and enlarged lymph nodes. In rare cases, tumors and parasites can also cause this blockage. 
• Infection: Sometimes, a viral or bacterial infection can also spread to the appendix, causing infection and inflammation. Usually, this infection starts in your digestive system and spreads to the appendix. 

Risk Factors for Appendicitis 

There are several factors that can increase your likelihood of developing appendicitis:

• Age: Though this condition can happen at any age, appendicitis is most common between the ages of 10 and 30.
• Sex: While studies have shown a slightly higher incidence in males (8.6%) compared to females (6.7%), the difference is not substantial. Appendicitis can occur in both males and females.
• Diet: If you consume a high-fiber diet or processed foods, you may be at a high risk of appendicitis. Fiber helps move waste through your digestive system. A lack of fiber can contribute to constipation and fecaliths.

If the appendicitis pain location is in the lower right region, along with other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fever, get in touch with your doctor. Get diagnosed early to prevent further complications. 

Appendicitis Symptoms and Signs

There are various appendicitis symptoms you should be mindful of:

• One of the most common symptoms of appendicitis is abdominal pain. It starts around the belly button and then moves to the lower right abdomen.
• You may also experience some nausea and vomiting. They often occur after the abdominal pain begins.
• You may lose your appetite if you develop appendicitis.
• You may have a low-grade fever that may increase as the inflammation worsens.
• You can also experience abdominal swelling.
• You may have diarrhea or constipation if you have appendicitis.
• You may be unable to pass gas with appendicitis.

The pain of appendicitis may worsen when you cough, sneeze, breathe deeply, or walk.

Please keep in mind that not everyone will experience all of these symptoms. And the symptoms can vary in severity. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away to get a diagnosis. 

Diagnosis and Evaluation for appendicitis

For the right diagnosis, you should first keep a check on your symptoms and make sure you book an appointment with your doctor. Your healthcare provider may ask about your records and will ask you to perform a physical exam. Here are some of the tests your doctor might recommend:

• Blood tests: With this test, your doctor will check for signs of infection. Your white blood cells may go up if you have an infection in your body.
• Urine tests: This will check if you have a urinary infection. 

Apart from the aforementioned tests, your doctor might also ask you to get imaging tests. This includes:

• Abdominal Ultrasound: Your doctor will examine your internal organs and check the flow of blood through your blood vessels. 
• CT Scan: This will show detailed images of body parts such as fats, muscles, and bones.
• MRI: Very rarely, your doctor may ask you to get an MRI. This is usually recommended for pregnant women. 

Treatment Options for appendicits

As far as the appendicitis treatment options are concerned, there is only one way to get relief from appendicitis. It's an appendectomy, which is a surgical process to remove the appendix. This is the primary treatment option suggested by doctors to avoid the risk of appendix rupturing. 

There are two ways by which your appendix can be removed: i) Open surgery and ii) Laparoscopy. 

1. Open Appendectomy: 

This is the traditional surgery method where your abdomen is cut open to remove the appendix. First, you will be given general anesthesia, and then an incision will be made on the right-hand side of your belly. If the appendix has already ruptured, the surgeon will place a small tube (shunt) to drain the pus and other fluids out of your belly. The shunt is usually removed after a few days after your surgeon feels that there's no more infection present. 

2. Laparoscopic Method: 

The laparoscopic method involves administering anesthesia and making a few small incisions in the abdomen. A camera is inserted through one of the incisions to provide a view inside the belly, while surgical tools are inserted through the other incisions. The appendix is then removed laparoscopically, even if it has ruptured. If the appendix hasn't ruptured, recovery typically takes a few days. However, if it has ruptured, the recovery period will be longer.

Post-Treatment Care

After an appendectomy, you will need a few weeks to recover. After the surgery, your abdomen will be sore and will hurt for a few days. Your surgeon will ask you to take plenty of rest and have adequate fluids. There are ways to heal after surgery:

• Incision Care: After surgery, it’s important to keep your incisions dry and clean. Do not apply water until your doctor asks you to do so. Your doctor will guide you on how and when to take a shower. Apply antibiotic ointment on your incisions as directed by your surgeon. Take your medicines on time and do not skip any dose. You will be given pain management medications to avoid discomfort and promote better healing. 
• Limit your Activity: Take complete rest for at least seven days if you have done laparoscopy. In case of open surgery, you will need to take rest for 3-4 weeks. Also, do not try any heavy workout sessions for the first few weeks. Avoid lifting any heavy objects and 
• Diet Restrictions: After surgery, you will be given a liquid diet for the first 24-48 hours and then solid foods. This is done to ensure that there is no indigestion or vomiting after surgery, which may put stress on your body. Doctors usually recommend that patients have light food (preferably a low-fat diet). 

Final Words 

Appendicitis is a condition that can hamper your daily life. Pain and discomfort can prevent you from enjoying a good quality of life. Furthermore, it puts pressure on your digestive system. At Apollo Spectra, we understand the pain you might be going through. As a multispecialty hospital, we offer you the advantage of quality healthcare along with the benefits of a modern infrastructure and facility. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get relief from conditions like appendicitis.