The Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Appendicitis

The appendix is an organ that does not serve any purpose. Many of us can easily live without it, though when it gets inflamed it can cause death.

The appendix is around 3 and a half inches and is shaped like a finger. It is located on the lower right of the abdomen, and extends from the large intestine. No expert is sure exactly what the function of the appendix is, and it is often removed with no unfavorable consequence. However, when it becomes inflamed and filled with pus this results in appendicitis which can be extremely serious.

Its possible for anyone to develop appendicitis, though it is more common from the ages of 10 to 30.

When appendicitis develops it usually requires immediate medical attention. Surgery will be performed to remove the organ, and there is no alternative treatment. The surgeon will try to remove the organ before it has a chance to either burst or perforate. If it does burst then this is what can cause death.

Appendicitis can be caused for a number of reasons, usually when the organ has been blocked by foreign bodies or by bodily waste. It may also be a sign or a complication of cancer, or caused by an infection in the body.

Symptoms of Appendicitis

The first sign that you may have appendicitis is a feeling of pain in the area around your navel. This pain may chance extremely quickly, and move onto the lower right side of your abdomen. The pain increases in intensity, and most sufferers will feel a sharp change between 6 and 12 hours of the initial pain.

There are a number of other symptoms of the condition. These can range from a loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, to back pain, swelling, pain when urinating and more. Symptoms will always vary according to each individual case, and you may not have all of these symptoms when appendicitis is present.

Available Treatments

If you have appendicitis it may be difficult to diagnose. This is because symptoms are often vague and non-localized. They are often confused with symptoms of other illness, which could include gastritis and urinary tract infections.

In order to diagnose the condition, people suffering will often have to go through an abdominal as well as a rectal exam. They may also have to have a urine sample taken, as well as a blood test, as a way of ruling out other conditions. In some cases patients will have to have an ultrasound or a CT scan.

Its also a good idea to stop eating or drinking anything. Avoid painkillers, laxatives, antacids, or the use of heating pads to reduce pain ” this could cause your appendix to burst. It is a good idea to visit the nearest emergency room if you feel you may have appendicitis.

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