Symptoms of Appendicitis
Unlike muscle pain, appendix inflammation is a sharp, sudden pain that typically happens around the navel and then spreads. As it gets worse, acts like coughing walking or even moving become excruciatingly painful. That stage is usually followed by a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, a fever that can escalate, and diarrhea or constipation. Abdominal bloating is a major sign that the appendix is in trouble.
When the pain graduates from mild stages, it’s time to see the doctor. Appendicitis can pose some challenges and complications, including
- A ruptured appendix - This happens when the appendix breaks open, spreading the infection throughout the abdominal area, a condition called peritonitis. This condition is potentially life-threatening and needs immediate surgical intervention to remove the appendix and clean the infection from the abdomen.
- Pus pocket - When the appendix bursts, the pus spreads and lodges in an adjacent area, becoming a pus pocket known as an abscess. A surgeon will drain the area with a tube in the abdomen, and antibiotics will help clear the infection. Once that area is clear, surgery to remove the appendix will commence. In emergency situations, the appendix is taken out immediately.
A doctor will ask about when the symptoms of pain first appeared and will examine the abdominal area. This can be painful because the doctor will put gentle pressure on the painful areas. When that pressure is taken off, the pain will increase. This lets the physician know that the peritoneum is inflamed. While it is not a pleasant test, it is a necessary part of the diagnosis because other issues may be present.