The Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Appendicitis
The appendix is an organ that does not serve any purpose. Many of us can easily live without it, though when it gets inflamed it can cause death.
The appendix is around 3 and a half inches and is shaped like a finger. It is located on the lower right of the abdomen, and extends from the large intestine. No expert is sure exactly what the function of the appendix is, and it is often removed with no unfavorable consequence. However, when it becomes inflamed and filled with pus this results in appendicitis which can be extremely serious.
It is possible for just about anyone to develop appendicitis. However, it usually happens among ages 10 to 30, and very rarely among babies or toddlers. In general, around 1 out of every 15 people will suffer with this condition.
When appendicitis develops it requires urgent medical attention. People who have the condition will require a surgical procedure to remove the organ, and there is no alternative treatment available. It is extremely important to seek treatment, since perforation or bursting of the organ can lead to death.
The cause of appendicitis could be when it becomes blocked by foreign bodies, or bodily waste. It can also be a complication of cancer, or be caused by an infection.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
The first sign that you may have appendicitis is a feeling of pain in the area around your navel. This pain may chance extremely quickly, and move onto the lower right side of your abdomen. The pain increases in intensity, and most sufferers will feel a sharp change between 6 and 12 hours of the initial pain.
There are a number of other symptoms of the condition. These can range from a loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, to back pain, swelling, pain when urinating and more. Symptoms will always vary according to each individual case, and you may not have all of these symptoms when appendicitis is present.
Treatment of Appendicitis
When the condition occurs it may be difficult to diagnose due to the fact that symptoms may be vague and non-localized. They may also be confused with symptoms of other common illnesses such as urinary tract infection, gallbladder diseases and more. Property diagnosis requires a rectal exam and a number of other tests.
In order to diagnose the condition, people suffering will often have to go through an abdominal as well as a rectal exam. They may also have to have a urine sample taken, as well as a blood test, as a way of ruling out other conditions. In some cases patients will have to have an ultrasound or a CT scan.
Its also a good idea to stop eating or drinking anything. Avoid painkillers, laxatives, antacids, or the use of heating pads to reduce pain ” this could cause your appendix to burst. It is a good idea to visit the nearest emergency room if you feel you may have appendicitis.
