Signs of appendicitis can be confused with other gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore, if not understood correctly, it can lead to a burst appendix, and the inflammation can quickly spread to other parts of the digestive system.
What You Need to Know About Appendicitis
Understanding the Appendix
The appendix is a part of the digestive tract, located at the base of the cecum, at the junction connecting the small intestine (Ileum) and the large intestine (Cecum). It is a thin tube about 2-4 inches (approximately 5-10 cm) long. Normally, the appendix is found in the lower right abdomen; however, in many cases, it can be located in other nearby positions, even in the center or the left side of the abdomen.
Role of the Appendix: The true function of the appendix is still debated. Some hypotheses suggest that the appendix serves as a reservoir for beneficial bacteria, helping to restore the digestive system after episodes of diarrhea due to gastrointestinal infections. Other theories propose that the appendix is merely a vestige of the digestive tract in the evolutionary history of humans.
Signs of Appendicitis Pain
1. Severe Abdominal Pain
The onset of severe abdominal pain is one of the first signs of appendicitis. This symptom is caused by inflammation and increased pressure on the appendix.
The pain is typically located in the lower right abdomen. However, in many cases, patients may also experience pain near the navel or in the lower back.
Sneezing, moving the legs, or pressing on the abdomen may worsen the condition.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Additionally, sudden feelings of nausea and vomiting can also be a sign of appendicitis.
This phenomenon is observed in 90% of appendicitis cases and usually follows the onset of severe abdominal pain in patients.
If this condition keeps recurring, you should seek medical attention immediately to confirm whether you have appendicitis.
Sudden vomiting can also be a warning sign of appendicitis.
3. Constipation or Diarrhea
In appendicitis patients, some may experience severe constipation while others may suffer from continuous diarrhea. This symptom is often accompanied by bloating.
4. Bloating
Due to the inflammatory response in the tissues and the accumulation of gas within the intestines, individuals with appendicitis often experience bloating with a very uncomfortable feeling of fullness.
5. Fever
Along with abdominal pain, patients often have a fever (though not very high) accompanied by chills. Therefore, if you experience lower right abdominal pain along with a fever, it is best to seek medical attention immediately to avoid late diagnosis that could endanger your life.
6. Loss of Appetite
When suffering from appendicitis, patients may suddenly feel a loss of appetite despite usually having a good appetite.
The inflammation in the appendix affects the body’s digestive functions. In many cases, appendicitis can inhibit the production of hunger hormones, leading to a lack of appetite and cravings.
However, this condition should be assessed alongside the presence of other symptoms for accurate diagnosis.
7. Rebound Tenderness
Rebound tenderness is a sign that helps accurately diagnose appendicitis.
Doctors check by pressing on the lower right abdomen of the patient. If appendicitis is present, you will feel sharp pain where pressed, and when the pressure is released, the intensity of the pain will become even more severe.
Are you experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above? If so, see a doctor immediately to confirm whether you have appendicitis.
Always remember that the earlier the disease is detected, the higher the chances of successful treatment.
8. Abdominal Rigidity
Appendicitis can be identified by abdominal rigidity. As abdominal pain gradually increases, there is a risk that the patient may experience a ruptured appendix, leading to abdominal stiffness. This is one of the common signs of appendicitis.
When to See a Doctor?
The signs mentioned above can easily be confused with digestive disorders or poisoning. However, it is important to clearly differentiate appendicitis from poisoning, as appendicitis typically presents with dull and progressive abdominal pain, while poisoning or pain from digestive disorders will usually cause sharp, immediate pain. Moreover, in cases of poisoning, the symptoms often appear simultaneously, whereas the signs of appendicitis will appear sequentially, from mild to severe.
Appendicitis can be very dangerous because if not detected early and treated promptly, it can lead to a ruptured appendix and even death. Therefore, it is best to seek medical attention as soon as the initial signs appear; do not wait until experiencing severe symptoms like fever or abdominal rigidity to seek treatment.
