What Everybody Ought to Know About The Symptoms Of Appendicitis

The symptoms of appendicitis are not always the same with every person. There are classic symptoms, but they can sometimes be confused with other conditions. Here is a look at what the appendix is, what can happen to it, and further information to help you understand and recognize symptoms of this medical problem.

The human appendix is a small tubular projection that is attached to the first section of the colon, known as the cecum. It is also sometimes referred to as a worm-like structure. For many years the human appendix is not believed to have a function. Often times it has been referred to as something that is no longer needed, as the human body has evolved past the need for it.

In recent years, opinions on the human appendix have changed, and it is now believed to have a function in the immune system. Part of the appendix contains a core which contains mucus. This mucus drains into the cecum. Within the appendix walls is lymphatic tissue which assists the human immune system with production of important antibodies, which fight off invading organisms.

Appendicitis is a condition in which an appendix becomes inflamed. There is a common medical opinion that the inflammation may be caused when the path between the appendix and the cecum is blocked. The blockage can sometimes be a result of thickened mucus in an appendix or it may be due to fecal matter from the colon. Material causing the blockage will harden and this can completely block off the opening to the appendix, causing it to swell in size.

When an appendix can no longer function, it is usually affected by bacteria that live within it. This causes an infection. When bacteria attack any area of the body, the immune system springs into action and attacks the invading organisms. The result of the attack is inflammation or increased swelling. The immune system response is to elevate the body temperature, also.

Some medical professional believe that an inflamed appendix may be the result of a rupture within the appendix. When this happens, bacteria from the lining makes its way into the body, and the result is an infection. In this case, there may not be a blockage, but an unknown inflammation of the appendix lymphatic tissue. In many cases, someone may experience symptoms of appendicitis, and the condition can become worse. In fact, your appendix can burst, and this causes a life threatening condition.

The most common symptom of appendicitis is pain in the abdomen. There also may be constipation. At first, abdominal pain may not be in one particular area. In fact, it may appear to move about some. However, it should be noted that it is usually on the lower right side.

Abdominal pain is often accompanied with a loss of appetite. This can include nausea and an upset stomach. There may also be vomiting and fever. When the inflammation increases, it affects the outer lining of the abdomen. When this occurs the pain can be localized to what is known as the McBurney’s Point. This point is a region that stretches from the belly button to the right hip bone, and is named after Dr. McBurney. He is the one responsible for identifying this region with appendix problems.

Often times, when there is pain at the McBurney’s Point, there will also be a lot of tenderness. It may be very painful to the touch. This is the area that a doctor will press, to see if you have an inflamed appendix.

Treatment for this condition is usually surgery. When the inflamed appendix is removed, it almost always takes care of the problem. In some cases, if appendicitis is not completely certain, antibiotic treatment may be given. The condition may simply be an infection that does not involve the appendix.

Other conditions may be similar to those of appendicitis. For example, diverticulitis can sometimes be similar. This is usually brought on by a small pouch in the intestines, and it can become infected. Inflammatory conditions of the ovaries or abdomen may also mimic and inflamed appendix, as can kidney problems.

In summary, the appendix is a part of the immune system and can become inflamed and infected. As it is located atop the colon, it usually causes pain on the right side of the abdomen. Other symptoms of appendicitis include abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes constipation. Other conditions may mimic an inflamed appendix, like diverticulitis, and female pelvic conditions. Treatment is usually aimed at removing the inflamed appendix, although sometime antibiotics may be used.

Related Articles