Appendicitis is a condition categorized by inflammation or an infection of the appendix, which is housed in the lower right portion of a person’s abdomen. The appendix isn’t a vital organ, which means you can do just fine without it, but it can still cause issues if problems with the organ aren’t addressed. Severe problems with the appendix are more common in children, because they aren’t always able to adequately describe their symptoms. We explain how pediatric appendicitis is best treated below.
Causes and Symptoms of Pediatric Appendicitis
In both children and adults, appendicitis is the result of a blockage of the appendix. This is usually caused by the development of hard mucus, stool, a foreign body or a virus. When a blockage occurs, the appendix begins to swell, and unless the problem is rectified, the appendix can perforate and cause bacteria and the infection to spread.
Symptoms of appendicitis can vary from child to child, but the most common symptoms are:
- Abdominal pain in the lower middle or lower right abdomen
- Fever
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Pain that worsens with activity
Diagnosing and Treating Pediatric Appendicitis
If your child is experiencing any of the above symptoms, head in to an emergency room or see if you can be viewed by a pediatrician or an endocrine specialist. Once in their office, the doctor will take a look at your child’s medical history, ask about their symptoms, and conduct some physical tests. By touching and manipulating the abdomen, the doctor will be able to check for swelling or symptom recurrence. If they suspect that an appendix issue may be the underlying problem, they may conduct a blood test to look for certain biomarkers, or they may opt for a CT scan or ultrasound.
If your child has been diagnosed with appendicitis, and the doctor believes it is stable, they will likely prescribe some antibiotics or IV fluids. They will also talk to both the parents and child about what symptoms to watch for in the coming hours to ensure the treatment is working and they are not at risk for continued problems.
If the antibiotics do not not take care of the problem, or your doctor believes your child may be at risk for future swelling or perforations, surgery may be recommended. An appendectomy is a very straightforward and minimally invasive procedure to remove the appendix, and the operation has great results, but it can be difficult for parents if this is the first time their child is undergoing surgery. After the appendix is removed, the child can usually head home the same day or the next day, and they’ll have a follow up visit with their doctor 2-3 weeks after the operation.
Surgery Recovery
Your child can return to school when they are comfortable moving without needing pain medications. Physical activity is usually limited for at least two weeks after surgery, and kids shouldn’t lift heavy objects like backpacks or books during this period. Your doctor will be able to clear your child for certain activities at their 2-3 week follow-up appointment.
