What is Appendicitis? Know the Symptoms, Causes, Types, Diagnosis & Treatment

Appendicitis is a medical emergency that occurs when the appendix, a small, finger-like pouch attached to the large intestine, becomes blocked, swollen, and infected. The exact role of the appendix is still not known, but an inflamed appendix can cause serious issues, such as rupture, which can lead to life-threatening infection in the abdomen (peritonitis).

The best treatment is to remove the appendix surgically, known as appendectomy. People often choose laparoscopic surgery since it is less invasive with shorter recovery time and lower risk of infections.

Visit the best Appendicitis surgery hospital in Greater Noida immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of appendicitis, such as intense abdominal pain, nausea, or fever.

In case you are having frequent or severe stomach pain, particularly in your lower right side, seek emergency medical care. Contact us today +91 9667064100.

What is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is a condition where the appendix, a small, finger-like pouch that connects to the large intestine, becomes inflamed. It typically begins with cramp-like pain in the lower right abdomen, which can rapidly intensify within a short period. The illness is usually caused by a blockage of the appendix due to accumulation of fecal waste, an infection, or enlarged lymphoid tissue. The blockage leads to inflammation, bacterial growth, and pus accumulation.

If not treated, the appendix could burst, letting the infection spread throughout the abdomen. This could lead to peritonitis, a serious and perhaps life-threatening condition that requires immediate surgery.

Types of Appendicitis

1. Acute Appendicitis

Acute appendicitis is the most common type, and it is characterized by sudden and severe discomfort in the abdomen. It progresses quickly and needs immediate medical help.

2. Chronic Appendicitis

Chronic appendicitis is a less severe form that gets worse over a period of time. The severity of discomfort and symptoms may fluctuate over weeks or months.

Symptoms of Appendicitis

Appendicitis usually starts with pain around the belly button area that moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. But the symptoms may vary widely. Some common indicators are:

• Pain that is sharp or crampy in the lower right abdomen

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Low to moderate fever

• Bloating or swelling in the stomach

• Constipation

• Painful urination

Note: Classic symptoms are not always present. It may be harder to diagnose in kids, older people, and pregnant women since the pain may be present in unusual areas.

What Causes Appendicitis?

As discussed earlier, appendicitis usually occurs due to blockage in the appendix, which lets bacteria grow quickly, leading to inflammation or infection. Common causes of this blockage include:

\

• Fecal impaction obstructing the appendiceal orifice

• Inflammation of lymphoid tissue caused by infections

• Gastrointestinal infection

• Neoplasms or unusual growths

• Parasitic infection

• Undigested food particle stuck in appendix

If not treated, the inflamed appendix may burst because of increasing internal pressure, leading to serious complications. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Complications of Untreated Appendicitis

Delaying treatment for appendicitis might lead to serious health issues. If appendicitis isn't addressed on time, it might lead to any of the following problems within 36 to 48 hours:

• Appendix rupture: The infected appendix bursts, leading to the release of harmful substances into the abdominal cavity.

• Peritonitis: A serious infection of the peritoneal lining

• Abscess formation: A localized collection of pus encircling the appendix

• Sepsis: A serious condition where infection spreads through the bloodstream

These complications require prompt medical attention and can significantly prolong the healing process.

How is Appendicitis Diagnosed?

The best laparoscopic surgeon in Greater Noida uses a combination of physical exams, symptom analysis, and diagnostic tests to identify the severity of appendicitis. The tests include:

• Blood tests: To detect higher levels of white blood cells and signs of inflammation

• Ultrasound: Ultrasound is often used in pregnant women and toddlers to identify swelling or inflammation.

• CT scan: The most reliable method for confirming appendicitis or detecting a rupture.

• Urinalysis: To rule out kidney-related problems or urinary tract infections.

Quick diagnosis is important to prevent complications and make sure that treatment is quick and effective.

Treatment of Appendicitis

1. Medications

• Antibiotics are administered before and after surgery to prevent infections.

• Analgesics help ease stomach pain.

In rare cases, antibiotics may be enough to treat mild appendicitis. However, this is uncommon and not typically advised.

2. Surgery Removal (Appendectomy)

Surgery is the most effective and common treatment for appendicitis. There are two main types of surgery:

• Laparoscopic Surgery: Laparoscopic surgery is a less invasive procedure that involves small cuts, resulting in faster recovery and minimal complications.

• Open Surgery: Open surgery is done when the situation is complicated, like when the appendix bursts, an abscess forms, or peritonitis occurs.

Most appendectomies are performed within 24 hours of diagnosis to avoid serious problems.

Recovery After Appendectomy

Most people fully recover in 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of surgery and their general condition.
Suggestions for a smooth recovery:

• For at least two weeks, don't carry heavy things.

• Keep the area around the incision clean and dry.

• To avoid constipation, drink plenty of water and eat lots of fiber.

If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as a fever, redness, or unusual discharge near the incision, consult your doctor immediately.

Seek consultation from an experienced doctor for immediate and correct diagnosis.

Conclusion

Appendicitis is a serious medical emergency but is fully treatable. It is necessary to identify symptoms quickly and get medical help right away to avoid problems. If you have severe stomach pain or ongoing discomfort, don't ignore it. Emergency surgery at the best hospital in Greater Noida will help you get better with faster recovery at an affordable appendicitis treatment cost. At the best hospital in Greater Noida, you will get early medical intervention.

FAQs on Appendicitis

Q: How do I test for appendicitis at home?
Ans: Tests done at home aren't always accurate. But warning symptoms include recurring pain in the lower right abdomen and loss of appetite. Always visit a doctor to get the right diagnosis.

Q: Is appendicitis genetic?
Ans: A family history may raise your risk, but appendicitis is not directly inherited. Both hereditary and environmental variables are likely involved.

Q: Can stress cause appendicitis?
Ans: Stress does not directly cause appendicitis. But it can weaken your immune system, making you vulnerable to infection.

Q: Can appendicitis resolve without treatment?
Ans: In rare circumstances, symptoms may go away on their own, but most cases need medical help. Delayed treatment can lead to rupture of the appendix or other serious medical emergencies.

Q: How long is the recovery after appendectomy?
Ans: Most people get back to their normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks after having a simple appendectomy. It may take longer to get better in case of open surgery or serious medical emergency.