Appendicitis is defined as sore swelling of the appendix. It is important to note that the appendix is a small-sized, thin sac around 2-4 inches long. The pouch is linked to the large intestine where the stools are formed.
The condition starts with discomfort in the center of the abdomen that might come and go. In just hours, the pain moves to the lower right side where the appendix is positioned and becomes severe and continuous.
Walking, coughing or pressure on the site can worsen the pain. The individual might lose appetite, feel sick and occasionally experience diarrhea.
When to seek medical attention?
If there is abdominal pain that steadily worsens, a doctor should be consulted right away.
Call for emergency assistance if the individual experiences abrupt pain that continues to worsen and spreads all over the abdomen.
These are indications that the appendix might have ruptured which can lead to dangerous complications.
Management of appendicitis
Generally, the treatment for appendicitis requires surgical removal of the appendix as soon as possible.
Appendectomy or removal of the appendix is carried out as keyhole surgery which involves the creation of several miniature incisions in the abdomen where specialized surgical instruments are inserted.
Open surgery in which a bigger, single incision is created in the abdomen is performed once the appendix has ruptured or hard to reach.
In most cases, an individual can fully recover from appendectomy after a few weeks. The individual must avoid any strenuous physical activities up to 6 weeks after undergoing open surgery.