Appendicitis
By Marcos Otero, Gulf Coast Immediate Care Center, Fort Walton Beach
Appendicitis – what is the appendix?
The appendix is a small attachment where the small and large intestine meets. It has an opening at one end that connects to the large intestine and closes on the other so that material can move freely through it. If the open end of the appendix gets plugged from swelling or blockage, then the appendix begins to swell further. This excessive swelling stops the blood flow to the organ as the appendix tissue begins to die. If not treated, the appendix eventually bursts, which can be fatal in some cases.
Appendicitis Symptoms:
The most common symptoms of appendicitis are:
Umbilical Pain. The appendix is in the right lower abdomen; however, the pain may often start at the belly button. It is initially dull and worsens as it moves towards the right lower abdomen when the appendix swells.
Intense Pain. While the pain associated with appendicitis is initially described as dull and localized, as the inflammation and swelling worsen, the pain becomes much more intense and moves to the lower right abdomen area. Intense pain in the lower-right abdomen is usually the first warning sign, and you should be seen.
Fever. Infections will naturally raise your temperature to combat it. A multitude of viruses and bacteria can cause fevers. Fever with abdominal pain is an indicator that you should be evaluated.
Chills. Chills are often a precursor to a fever and are caused by rapid muscle contraction and relaxation as a way for the body to produce heat when it’s cold.
Vomiting. You may experience a few days of mild nausea and vomiting.
Rebound Tenderness. You will get relief from feeling pain when pressure is applied to the abdomen, and the pain returns when pressure is removed.
Tenemus. It is the feeling of pressure you feel when you must defecate. With appendicitis, you get that feeling but cannot defecate.
Swollen Abdomen. Appendicitis is an inflammation and swelling of the appendix, so you might experience some swelling in the infected and surrounding areas.
Appendicitis when to get seen
Remember that many different problems can cause abdominal pain. If your pain is not improving, see your medical provider for an evaluation.
