Appendicitis

The Appendix is as a small sac or finger-like pouch that is located at the beginning of the large intestine (colon). Researchers, scientists, and medical experts have been unable to determine the exact function or purpose of the appendix; however, it is believed that it may have had a more significant role in the digestive process of primitive man.

Today, however, removal of the appendix seems to have no apparent consequences to an individual's health. When the appendix becomes inflamed, swollen, or infected, this is called appendicitis and is typically treated by surgical removal of the appendix. 

The causes and symptoms of Appendicitis 

Appendicitis is typically caused by a blockage or obstruction within the appendix that can occur for several different reasons including the blockage of the inside of the appendix (appendiceal lumen) by feces, parasites, cancer, a growth, infection, or some other type of foreign body. Appendicitis can also be caused by trauma to the abdomen. 

While there are numerous symptoms that an individual can experience due to appendicitis, the most common and prevalent is that of abdominal pain. This pain typically comes on suddenly and may begin as a dull pain in the area of the navel and increase in severity relatively quickly as it moves towards the lower right area of the abdomen. 

While abdominal pain is generally the first sign of appendicitis, other symptoms may be experienced that include severe cramping and nausea or vomiting shortly after the start of the abdominal pain.

An individual may also experience the symptom of painful gas which they are unable to pass and may feel as if having a bowel movement would relieve their discomfort. Diarrhea and constipation can also be symptoms of appendicitis as well as abdominal swelling. Some individuals may also run a low grade fever along with some of these symptoms when experiencing an appendicitis attack. 

Diagnosing and Treating Appendicitis 

In some cases appendicitis can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms can also be indicative of other medical conditions such as intestinal infections, gallbladder problems, Crohn's disease, urinary tract or bladder infection, ovarian problems, or gastritis. However, a physician is typically able to diagnose appendicitis based on the patient's description of their symptoms and a physical examination of the abdominal area that includes applying pressure in order to access pain.

Other tests may be performed that include blood tests to determine the white blood cell count that can indicate an infection if the level of white blood cells are high.  Blood tests may also be used to determine the level of electrolytes and fluids which will show if the patient is suffering from dehydration. A urinalysis may also be done in order to rule out or detect the presence of a urinary tract or bladder infection. 

When a physician suspects a patient of having appendicitis, he or she will typically act quickly without performing further diagnostic testing and recommend the immediate removal of the appendix with emergency surgery. The primary reason for the immediate removal of the appendix is to avoid the potential of the appendix bursting which is a life threatening condition as it will then cause infectious or poisonous substances to leak or spread into the abdominal cavity. Appendicitis can be fatal when left untreated, therefore, if you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of appendicitis it is essential that you seek emergency medical attention.