Appendicitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a finger-shaped pouch that projects from your colon on the lower right side of your abdomen. Appendicitis causes pain in your lower right abdomen. However, in most people, pain begins around the navel and then moves

The primary cause of infection is when there appears to be a blockage in the lining of the organ, and that infection is the likely cause of appendicitis. In addition, digestive tract infection, inflammatory bowel disease, and abdominal trauma injury can also be considered as potential causes of Appendicitis. When infected, the bacteria multiply, causing the appendix to become inflamed, swollen, and in some cases, filled with pus. 

If not diagnosed and treated immediately, the appendix can rupture.

1. Sudden pain on the right side of your lower abdomen
2. Sudden pain that begins from the navel and travels to the right lower abdomen
3. Pain that worsens if you cough or even as simple as a walk
4. Nausea
5. Vomiting
6. Loss of appetite
7. Low-grade fever
8. Constipation
9. Abdominal bloating
10. Flatulence

Diagnosis

1. Diagnosing appendicitis can be a little tricky as the symptoms are often unclear. However, usually, the doctor begins by taking a complete family medical history, clinical examination, which may include a physical exam of the abdomen, and a few other tests, if necessary.
2. If you’re suffering from a pre-existing medical condition or illness like gallbladder problems, UTIs, Crohn’s diseases, gastritis, kidney stones, and ovary problems, your physician may perform the following tests to rule out or diagnose appendicitis:-

Examination of your abdomen to identify inflammation

1. Urine test to rule out a UTI
2. Rectal exam
3. Blood test to see if your body is fighting against an infection
4. CT scans
5. Ultrasound

Appendicitis Treatment

1. Typically, the treatment for appendicitis includes a surgery known as appendectomy to remove the inflamed appendix. In milder cases, the doctor may use a strong dose of antibiotics. However, if you are presenting severe symptoms or discomfort, the doctor may recommend a surgical intervention. And, after the surgery, there are a few treatment protocols you must follow:-
2. Home remedies include Vitamin A & C rich foods in your diet like amla, strawberries, limes, kiwi, red capsicum, orange, carrots, mangoes, etc. In addition to this, ginger, broccoli, celery, and basically all anti-inflammatory rich foods can help keep the nausea away.
3. In addition to the above-mentioned home remedies, also try to include lots of fiber and protein in your diet post surgery. And if you’re feeling nauseous, eating bland foods such as plain rice or toast is proven to be effective. 
4. Over-the-counter, prescription medicines to relieve the pain
5. If you are pregnant, seek proper treatment for appendicitis as delayed diagnosis and treatment may increase the risk of complications, including miscarriage.
6. If you’re constipated, a fiber supplement is recommended. However, do consult your doctor prior to taking any medication.

1. Advantages of laparoscopic appendectomy include increased cosmetic satisfaction and a decrease in the postoperative wound-infection rate.
2. Open Appendectomy   procedure allows your doctor to clean the abdominal cavity if your appendix has burst.

Risk Factors

1. Appendicitis can affect anyone from a 10-year-old to a 50-year-old, which is why it is essential to keep an eye out for the following risk factors:-
2. Sex: Appendicitis is more common in males as compared to females.
3. Family History: People who have a family history of appendicitis, in particular, are at high risk of developing it.