What To Look For

Appendicitis refers to the complications arising due to the bacterial infection and subsequent inflammation of the appendix. The human appendix is a tiny appendage attached to the colon. The appendix is a worm-like structure that is about three inches or more in length.

When bacteria invade the wall of the appendix and infect it, it results in appendicitis. Abscess and peritonitis are the most common complications arising from appendicitis.

Some of the most common symptoms of appendicitis are abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and fever. A physician who is well aware of a patient’s history would most often be able to tell whether the patient is suffering from appendicitis after a physical examination. However, a number of diagnostic procedures like urinalysis, barium enema, a white blood cell count, abdominal X-ray, laparoscopy, CT scan, and ultrasonography can be used to make the diagnosis more accurate.

The size of each individual’s appendix might vary. The exact location could also vary in some instances. These factors and the appendix’s close proximity to the other internal organs of the body might make it a little difficult for the patient to pinpoint where exactly the pain is arising from. Other pelvic and abdominal diseases also produce similar symptoms. Therefore, accurately diagnosing appendicitis can be a little difficult in certain cases.

A few other medical conditions can also mimic the symptoms of appendicitis. For instance, inflammatory diseases of the right upper abdomen (like liver disease, gallbladder disease, or perforated duodenal ulcer), Meckel’s diverticulitis, pelvic inflammatory disease (or PID), and right-sided diverticulitis, and some kidney diseases can produce symptoms that resemble those of appendicitis.

Since appendicitis is caused by a bacterial infection, it can most often be cured by antibiotics. In the case of acute appendicitis or where the appendix has ruptured, the appendix would have to be removed through a surgical procedure known as an appendectomy. Unless it is absolutely essential, appendectomy can be avoided. Some of the complications of the procedure can be abscess and wound infection.

Chronic Appendicitis Symptoms

Chronic appendicitis is a milder form of appendicitis where the symptoms are most often not easily perceivable. Chronic Appendicitis Symptoms might include recurrent abdominal pain on the right side for a long duration due to an inflammation. This type of appendicitis develops slowly and has less pronounced symptoms. Therefore, it is more difficult to diagnose chronic appendicitis. Most patients would only feel vaguely fatigued or ill. Chronic appendicitis can often be cured by antibiotics if diagnosed early. Due to the vague nature of chronic appendicitis symptoms, it is essential for the patient to seek medical assistance for proper diagnosis or treatment.