CAUSES OF APPENDICITIS:

Blockage in the lining of the appendix is the main cause of appendicitis. This blockage, further, causes an infection; the bacteria then multiply quickly, leading the appendix to swell, inflame, and fill with pus.

• Other GI infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and abdominal trauma injury can also lead to appendicitis.
• Long-term stress can affect normal bowel function, leading to low immunity (defences) can lead to infections that can also be a contributing factor for appendicitis.

If not diagnosed and treated immediately, the appendix can rupture, leading to life-threatening conditions.

SYMPTOMS OF APPENDICITIS:

• Sudden sharp and shooting pain on the right side of your lower abdomen.
• Sudden, intense pain that begins from the navel and moves to the right lower abdomen.
• Pain in the abdomen that worsens while you cough, laugh, or do other movements.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite
• Low-grade fever.
• Severe constipation and abdominal bloating
• IBD, parasites, or viruses in your digestive tract.
• Flatulence/gas.

DIAGNOSIS OF APPENDICITIS:

• Your healthcare provider would perform a physical examination to check for abdominal stiffness or put a little pressure on the painful area to check for inflammation.
• The lower rectum could also be examined by using a lubricated, gloved finger glove (ie. e rectal exam). A pelvic exam could also be performed to check for other problems causing pain.
• If you’re suffering from a pre-existing medical condition or illness like gallbladder problems, Crohn’s disease, gastritis, kidney stones, IBD, and ovary problems, your physician may perform a few tests to rule out or diagnose appendicitis.
• Urine test (to rule out a UTI)
• Blood test to check for white blood count levels (if your body is fighting against an infection).
• CT scans/MRI
• Ultrasound/X-ray

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR APPENDICITIS:

• The core treatment for appendicitis is the removal of an inflamed appendix by a surgical procedure called appendectomy. In cases with mild symptoms, the doctor may use a strong dose of antibiotics. However, your healthcare provider may recommend a surgical procedure if you are experiencing severe symptoms like pain and discomfort.
• Over-the-counter, prescription medicines to relieve the pain.
• Appendicitis, if not diagnosed timely may increase the risk of complications like miscarriage in the case of pregnant ladies.

BENEFITS OF APPENDICITIS TREATMENT:

• A major benefit of laparoscopic appendectomy is increased cosmetic satisfaction and a decrease in the postoperative wound infection rate.
• Minimal invasive procedure leading to a decrease in postoperative pain.
• Quicker return to normal bowel function.
• Return to a normal pain-free life.
• Decrease the chance of other health problems (by avoiding bursts).
• Under open appendectomy, your doctor would clean the abdominal cavity (if it bursts).

RISK AND DELAY IN TREATMENT FOR APPENDICITIS:

• Appendicitis is a medical emergency that, if not treated on time, can rupture, leading to life-threatening conditions.
• Long hospital stays due to postoperative complications.
• Risk of complications like perforation or abscess.