Appendicitis disease is a serious medical condition marked by inflammation of the appendix — a small, finger-shaped pouch connected to the large intestine. While the exact purpose of the appendix is still debated, what’s clear is that when it becomes inflamed or infected, it requires prompt medical attention.
Often starting with a dull pain near the navel that shifts to the lower right abdomen, appendicitis disease can escalate quickly if left untreated, potentially leading to a ruptured appendix and life-threatening complications. Recognising the early symptoms, understanding the causes, and getting a timely diagnosis can make all the difference in managing this condition effectively.
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or fever, it could be more than just a stomach issue — it might be appendicitis disease. Early diagnosis is key to safe recovery.
What is appendicitis?
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix — a small, finger-like pouch located at the lower right end of your large intestine. This condition often triggers sudden and sharp pain in the lower abdomen. One common cause is a blockage or infection in the appendix, often due to stool (feces) passing through the intestines. When blocked, the appendix swells, which can eventually lead to a rupture if not treated in time.
A ruptured appendix is a medical emergency. It allows bacteria from the intestines to spill into the abdominal cavity, causing a serious infection known as peritonitis. If the infection spreads into the bloodstream, it can lead to sepsis — a life-threatening condition.
Due to these risks, the most effective treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix, called an appendectomy. The good news? The appendix isn’t a vital organ, so removing it won’t affect your digestion or long-term health.
What is acute appendicitis vs. chronic appendicitis?
Appendicitis is typically an acute condition, meaning it starts suddenly and escalates quickly — this is the most common form and the one most people are familiar with. Acute appendicitis often requires immediate medical attention due to the rapid onset and progression of symptoms.
Chronic appendicitis, on the other hand, is quite rare and less understood. It involves long-term, intermittent inflammation of the appendix that doesn't intensify the way acute appendicitis does. The symptoms may come and go, making it harder to detect or diagnose.
Because chronic appendicitis can suddenly flare up and become acute, healthcare providers treat both conditions seriously. If you're experiencing ongoing abdominal discomfort with no clear cause, it's important to consult a medical professional. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment, even if symptoms aren’t severe at the outset.
How common is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis disease is one of the most common causes of sudden abdominal pain requiring surgery. It typically affects people between the ages of 10 and 30 but can occur at any age. Studies show that about 5–10% of the population may develop appendicitis during their lifetime, making early detection crucial.
What are the early signs of appendicitis?
In a typical case of appendicitis, the abdominal pain often starts near the belly button, feeling vague or coming and going for a few hours. As time progresses, the discomfort intensifies, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Eventually, the pain moves to the lower right side of the abdomen—where the appendix is located—and becomes sharper and more persistent.
Common symptoms of appendicitis you should know
The hallmark symptoms of appendicitis include abdominal pain, nausea, and a reduced appetite. While these signs often follow a recognizable pattern that can help identify the condition, only around half of those with appendicitis experience this classic presentation. Children, older adults, and pregnant individuals are more likely to exhibit atypical or less predictable symptoms.
Nausea and vomiting often accompany appendicitis, making it difficult to eat or drink. A fever may develop as the body fights the infection, sometimes accompanied by chills. Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea, can also occur. In some cases, swelling in the abdomen and an overall feeling of discomfort may indicate that the appendix is inflamed.
It is important to note that symptoms can vary, particularly in children, pregnant women, and elderly individuals, who may not experience the classic lower-right abdominal pain. This variation can make appendicitis difficult to diagnose, requiring careful medical assessment.
What are other possible symptoms of appendicitis?
Some individuals may experience additional symptoms as appendicitis progresses, including:
Fever: Around 40% of people develop a fever, signaling a heightened immune response or the possible spread of infection.
Malaise: A general sense of being unwell, marked by fatigue and a desire to rest, similar to how one feels during other illnesses.
Abdominal bloating: A swollen or distended belly may occur, often indicating advanced inflammation or a potential rupture.
Urinary symptoms: Increased frequency or urgency in urination may result from irritation of nearby nerves affecting the bladder.
Bowel changes: Blood flow diversion can slow bowel activity, leading to constipation or difficulty passing gas—some may feel relief would come from a bowel movement.
Diarrhea: In contrast, some may have looser or more frequent stools due to irritation of the colon near the appendix.
How to check appendicitis at home?
If you think you might have appendicitis, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider—self-diagnosis isn’t a substitute for medical evaluation. However, certain physical signs can offer clues. A key symptom is abdominal pain that starts near the navel and gradually shifts to the lower right side. Here are some indicators doctors look for:
McBurney’s sign: Tenderness at a specific point between your belly button and right hip (known as McBurney’s point) is a common exam finding.
Blumberg’s sign: Pain that intensifies when pressure is released rather than applied, also known as rebound tenderness.
Dunphy’s sign: Pain that worsens when coughing.
Rovsing’s sign: Pressing on the lower left side of your abdomen causes pain on the lower right side.
Psoas and obturator signs: If the appendix is positioned behind the colon, moving or stretching your right hip may trigger pain. Flexing it may relieve discomfort, while rotating it inward or extending it may increase the pain.
These signs help doctors assess appendicitis, but only a proper medical exam and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
What are other conditions that can be confused with appendicitis?
Appendicitis symptoms can often mimic those of several other health issues, making it tricky to diagnose—especially in females. Since the appendix sits close to the pelvic area, conditions involving pelvic organs, the urinary system, or nearby digestive structures may cause similar lower abdominal pain.
Some common medical conditions that can be mistaken for appendicitis include:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Endometriosis
Ovarian cysts
Kidney stones
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Pancreatitis
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Diverticulitis
Gastroenteritis
Intestinal blockage or obstruction
If you're experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain, a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider is key to ruling out these possibilities.
What causes appendicitis to develop?
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes blocked or infected, leading to inflammation. Several factors can contribute to its development, increasing the risk of an appendicitis attack.
Common causes of appendicitis:
Blockage in the appendix – A blockage caused by stool, mucus, or a foreign object can trap bacteria, leading to infection and swelling.
Bacterial infection – An infection in the digestive tract can spread to the appendix, triggering inflammation.
Abdominal trauma – Injury or trauma to the abdomen may sometimes contribute to appendix irritation and swelling.
Gastrointestinal conditions – Conditions such as Crohn’s disease or intestinal infections can increase the likelihood of appendicitis.
Enlarged lymphoid tissue – Lymphoid follicles in the appendix can become inflamed due to infection, leading to obstruction and appendicitis.
