Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, which occurs suddenly and is very painful. The appendix is a small pouch that attaches to the large intestine. The pain starts mild but typically very quickly develops into severe pain which is felt usually in the lower right abdomen. The condition being untreated can make the appendix burst, leading to life-threatening infections. Appendicitis happens to both children and adults and requires immediate medical attention. The common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fever. Surgery, appendectomy, is the only treatment for it that takes care of complications. Early diagnosis helps to avoid rupture and further complications. If you experience persistent stomach pain, don't ignore it; this is a medical emergency demanding urgent action.

The Causes of Appendicitis

• Blockage of the Appendix: The appendix may be plugged by hardened stool, swollen lymph nodes, or foreign bodies, all of which may irritate and cause infections.
• Bacterial Infection: It is trapped in the appendix when a bacteria multiply very fast, thereby swelling out and producing a lot of pus.
• Abdominal Injury: An injury to the abdomen can affect the function of the appendix and lead to an irritation.
• Gastrointestinal Infections: Infective conditions of the gastrointestinal tract can create inflammation and swelling of the appendix.
• Genetic Factors: Some patients may have genetic or hereditary factors influencing their appendicitis, given their family history.

Symptoms of Appendicitis

• Severe Abdominal Pain: This begins from around the belly button to the lower right abdomen and gradually gets worse.
• Nausea and Vomiting: The pain makes it extremely difficult to hold anything down.
• Loss of Appetite: Feeling sick, followed by insomnia and difficulties digesting, is the sudden aversion to food.
• Fever and Chills: This occurs when inflammation becomes infected.
• Bloating and Gas: distension of the abdomen with the inability to pass gas.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Some people experience variations in bowel habits along with abdominal.

Treatment of Appendicitis

The main treatment of appendicitis is an operation called an appendectomy, in which the diseased appendix is removed. This can be done through open surgery or laparoscopic surgery (minimally invasive surgery for faster recovery). In the early days of the disease, treatment can also include antibiotics against the infection before surgery. If the appendicitis ruptures, urgent surgery and drainage of the infection are needed. Post-operation, pain control, hydration, and rest are important for recovery. Further, the earlier it is diagnosed and treated, the fewer the chances of developing complications such as peritonitis, thereby allowing smooth recovery.