What Is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix. It can occur suddenly and worsen within hours.

Types of Appendicitis

1. Simple Appendicitis – early-stage inflammation

2. Complicated Appendicitis – when the appendix bursts, causing pus or infection in the abdomen

A burst appendix can be life-threatening and requires immediate surgery.

Causes of Appendicitis

Appendicitis occurs mainly due to:

• Blockage of the appendix opening

• Stool or mucus buildup

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Infection from bacteria or viruses

• Foreign bodies entering the appendix

This blockage increases pressure inside the appendix, leading to pain, swelling, and infection.

Who Is at Risk?

Although appendicitis can happen at any age, certain groups are more prone:

• People between 10–30 years

• Individuals with a low-fiber diet

• Family history of appendix problems

• Frequent digestive infections

• Constipation issues

Common Symptoms of Appendicitis

Most people experience the following symptoms:

• Sharp pain in the right lower abdomen

• Pain starting near the navel and shifting to the right side

• Fever and chills

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea or vomiting

• Bloating and gas

• Diarrhea or constipation

The pain typically becomes more severe over time.

Silent or Atypical Symptoms

Some groups may show unusual symptoms:

Pregnant Women

Pain may appear higher due to shifted organs.

Children

They may show irritability, mild fever, or poor feeding.

Elderly

Symptoms may be milder but risk of rupture is higher.

Complications of Untreated Appendicitis

Ignoring appendicitis can lead to:

• Appendix rupture

• Pus-filled abscess

• Peritonitis (infection of the abdominal lining)

• Sepsis (life-threatening infection)

This is why timely diagnosis and surgery are critical.

Diagnosis of Appendix Disease

At Siddhi Vinayak Surgical Hospital, diagnosis includes:

Physical Examination

Doctors check tenderness in the right lower abdomen.

Ultrasound

Helps identify inflammation or swelling.

CT Scan

Highly accurate for detecting appendicitis.

Blood Tests

Shows elevated white blood cells indicating infection.

Treatment Options for Appendicitis

1. Medical Management

Medicines and IV antibiotics can temporarily control symptoms in early cases but are not a permanent cure.

2. Appendectomy – Surgical Removal

This is the best and permanent treatment for appendicitis.

Laparoscopic Appendectomy – Minimally Invasive Surgery

Laparoscopy is the most advanced and preferred method for appendix removal.

Benefits include:

• Small incisions

• Minimal pain

• Faster healing

• Lower infection risk

• Quick return to daily life

Most patients are discharged within 24 hours.