The Appendix is the finger-shaped vestigial organ, in the lower right side of the abdomen. Appendicitis is the condition where the appendix gets inflamed causing pain. If neglected, this condition can worsen and will then require surgery to remove the appendix. This condition can occur in any age group but is most common among people aged between 10 to 30 years.
The symptoms include sharp severe pain around the navel extending to the lower right side of the abdomen, high fever, flatulence, nausea, bloating in the abdominal area and discomfort that worsens with coughing, sneezing or walking. When there is extreme unbearable pain in the abdomen immediate surgical intervention could be essential.
The exact cause of Appendicitis is unknown but there could be certain triggering reasons like any blockage in the appendix, bacteria, or an injury. The genetic risk of inheriting the condition is one of the risk factors that could complicate the condition. The use of steroids, having diabetes and pulmonary diseases all increase the risk of developing appendicitis.
Appendicitis poses a risk of bacterial infection of the inner walls of the appendix, which can lead to the inflammation. If this condition is left untreated, it can further lead to pus accumulation in the organ, which may cause a rupture and increase the chances of the bacteria spreading across the abdomen.
Patients affected with Appendicitis will be first physically examined for abdominal pain, abdominal rigidity, or stiffened abdominal muscles, which are signs of pressure of an inflamed appendix. Due to the variations in the size of the appendix, its location and the proximity of other organs pelvic and abdominal aches can be confused with Appendicitis pain. The other methods of testing adopted by doctors are white blood cell count, urinalysis, barium enema, laparoscopy, ultrasonography and CT scan.
As the appendix is an organ that does not impact any other body function, the typical treatment is to remove the infected organ to avoid further complications. There are very rare cases of Appendicitis getting cured without surgery. Laparoscopic surgery is an option which involves the removal of the appendix with a very small incision, resulting in less blood loss and a quicker recovery.
The cause of Appendicitis is unknown but it can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber like whole wheat, fresh fruits, brown rice. Fried foods, sugary foods, alcohol, red meat that are difficult to digest and can upset the digestive system should be avoided.
A consultation with our panel of doctors, specialists and surgeons will help you determine what kind of services you may need to help diagnose and treat your condition. If you or someone in your family or friend’s circle are facing any health issues, please get in touch with us, we are here for you.
