Appendicitis is a serious condition that needs to be surgically treated as soon as possible. Identification of the common symptoms is the first step in catching and treating the condition. In this article, we are going to discuss appendicitis. We’ll cover the causes and symptoms of the condition, and talk about the necessary steps for treatment.

Appendicitis Defined

In the simplest terms, appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. The appendix itself is a several inch long collection of tissue that branches off from the large intestine. The exact purpose of the appendix is not known. However, we do know that humans can live without it without any problems. An inflamed appendix will eventually burst and spill material into the abdominal cavity. For this reason, appendicitis needs to be surgically treated immediately upon diagnosis.

Appendicitis is a serious condition that needs to be treated right away to avoid complications and possibly death. As a result, it’s a good idea for everyone to have an understanding of the signs and symptoms of appendicitis. The common warning signs of appendicitis include the following:

• Pain in near the belly button, that intensifies as it moves to the lower right abdomen.
• Nausea and vomiting
• A high fever (above 99 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Being unable to pass gas
• Swelling and cramping in the abdomen
• Pain when urinating

Since appendicitis can be deadly if not treated promptly, it’s important to understand and look out for these symptoms. Unfortunately these symptoms can be vague and resemble other conditions. To confirm a diagnosis, your doctor may order blood tests, CT scans, or a urine test to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Treating Appendicitis with Surgery

Appendicitis is treated with surgery. The appendix itself needs to be surgically removed to avoid complications. Since the appendix is not necessary, most surgeons will err on the side of caution and remove the appendix to avoid the possibility of a rupture. Make sure you find a general surgeon who specializes in appendectomy (appendix removal) surgery.