Appendicitis

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small, tube-like structure attached to the large intestine. It is a common condition that typically requires prompt medical attention. If untreated, an inflamed appendix can burst, leading to serious complications.

Causes

The exact cause of appendicitis is often unclear, but it can occur due to:

• Blockage of the appendix, often by stool, a foreign body, or cancer.

• Infection that leads to swelling.

• Genetic factors or family history (3x higher risk developing it)

  
  

Symptoms

Common symptoms of appendicitis include:

• Pain near the belly button that shifts to the lower right abdomen.

• Loss of appetite.

• Nausea and vomiting.

• Fever.

• Abdominal distension

• Difficulty passing gas.

  
  

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of appendicitis usually involves:

• Physical examination, focusing on abdominal tenderness.

• Blood tests to check for signs of infection.

• Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, or MRI to confirm it

  
  

Treatment

The general treatments for appendicitis usually are :

• Appendectomy: Surgical removal of the appendix, which can be performed as an open surgery or laparoscopically (MIS)

• Antibiotics: Administered before surgery to prevent infection.

• Intravenous drip

• Analgesia (pain killer)

  
  

Non-Surgical Treatment

In some cases, appendicitis may be treated with antibiotics alone, especially if the condition is diagnosed early and is not severe. However, this approach may not be suitable for everyone and might lead to a recurrence of symptoms or complications

Complications

If left untreated, appendicitis can lead to:

• Perforation (bursting) of the appendix, which can cause peritonitis.

• Abscess formation.

• Intestinal obstruction.

  
  

Conclusion

Appendicitis is a serious condition that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. If you experience symptoms associated with appendicitis, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to avoid complications.