What are appendix symptoms?

Read about appendix symptoms, and know when some symptoms need immediate action

Appendix symptoms could signal the need for emergency surgery. Find out more about appendicitis and appendix symptoms and treatment.

Appendix symptoms can indicate a medical emergency: appendicitis. Appendicitis is almost always treated by surgically removing the appendix, which is known medically as an appendectomy. In this article, you will learn how to recognize the symptoms of appendicitis, what causes the appendix to become infected, and how appendectomies work. Let's begin by learning a bit about the appendix.

Causes of Appendicitis

The appendix is an organ in the lower right abdomen connected to the colon. Though the appendix is attached to part of the large intestine, it can be removed without affecting digestion. The truth is, no one is exactly sure what role the appendix plays in our biology. Some feel that the appendix is simply an evolutionary vestige that is no longer needed, while others believe that the appendix stores healthy bacteria that aid in digestion.

Appendicitis occurs when something (often feces) blocks the inside of the appendix, resulting in pressure and inflammation. Ignoring appendix symptoms can cause gangrene, infection or a rupture. A ruptured appendix can spread the infection throughout the abdominal cavity, and -- if left untreated -- can be fatal.

Appendicitis Symptoms

Symptoms of appendicitis include decreased appetite, nausea and vomiting, difficulty passing gas or having bowel movements, diarrhea and fever. The most common symptom, however, is simply pain in the abdominal area. Abdominal pain may begin in the center of the belly and migrate to the lower right, where the appendix is located. Strenuous movement and breathing, or coughing and sneezing may intensify this pain. If you experience any combination of these symptoms, you should contact a doctor.

People with certain conditions do not always experience the same symptoms, however. Those living with HIV, diabetes or cancer, or people who are obese or have undergone an organ transplant, may not experience the same warning signs. Instead, a general feeling of discomfort may be the only indicator. Appendicitis is also difficult to pinpoint in pregnant women, since they commonly experience abdominal pain, vomiting and nausea. Pregnant women should seek medical treatment if they have any abdominal pain on the right side.

Treatment of Appendicitis Symptoms

If you think you're experiencing appendicitis symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately. A doctor will give you a physical examination and rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. Doctors will particularly look for signs of pain, tenderness or inflammation of the appendix. Blood tests and imaging tests, such as a CT scan, can also be part of an appendicitis diagnosis. Women may also receive a pregnancy test as part of the diagnosis.

Appendicitis cannot be properly treated with prescription medicine. Instead, performing an appendectomy, or surgically removing the appendix, is almost always necessary. Surgeons may use open surgery or laparoscopy (making small incisions in the abdominal wall and inserting instruments through special ports with the help of a tiny camera) to remove the appendix, each requiring different incisions and recovery time. Recovering from an appendectomy usually requires several weeks of rest but no long-term lifestyle or diet changes.

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