Disease
Appendicitis Disease
What is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is a medical condition where the appendix — a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine — becomes inflamed and infected. It is considered a medical emergency and usually requires immediate surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy).
Causes of Appendicitis:
Appendicitis typically occurs when the appendix becomes blocked due to:
- Hardened stool
- Intestinal infections
- Enlarged lymphoid follicles
- Foreign bodies or tumors
Symptoms of Appendicitis:
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Sudden pain on the lower right side of the abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal bloating
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to avoid complications like a ruptured appendix.
Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose appendicitis through:
- Physical examination
- Blood and urine tests
- Imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan
Treatment
The most common treatment for appendicitis is surgery (appendectomy), either through:
- Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) method
- Open surgery
Complications if Left Untreated:
- Ruptured appendix
- Peritonitis (infection of abdominal cavity)
- Abscess formation
