Acute Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix , a sort of small sac extending from the colon and usually at the right end of the large intestine . Its characteristic is that it manifests itself as sudden pain “in the lower right” part of the abdomen, but the characteristics of the pain can vary.
This is a major diagnostic trap for healthcare professionals. The different locations of the free end of the appendix can complicate diagnosis by giving rise to non-classical symptoms and sometimes pain located in very different areas of the abdomen (abdominal strap, liver, pelvic pain, etc.).
For doctors, it is therefore necessary to remain very attentive and systematically think of appendicitis when experiencing Abdominal pain. For patients, do not hesitate to consult their doctor to carry out an appropriate clinical examination and make a rapid diagnosis. Appendicitis, when left untreated, can detach and turn into peritonitis.
What is Acute Appendicitis?
Acute appendicitis is a sudden and severe inflammation of the appendix. It occurs when the appendix becomes blocked, particularly by fecal matter or mucus. It most often affects young patients under the age of 20.
Clinical signs are severe pain in the lower abdomen, occurring mainly on the right side, like a violent cramp. These pains may be accompanied by nausea , constipation or, more rarely, diarrhea . A moderate fever may also occur (usually between 37.5°C and 38.5°C).
This acute appendicitis attack requires medical treatment, most often involving surgery. Acute appendicitis is the leading cause of digestive surgery in USA.
A blood test can confirm it, as can an ultrasound or CT scan if the diagnosis is difficult, and a urine analysis can rule out any kidney problems.
The symptoms of appendicitis are so common and widespread that the disease can be difficult to diagnose.
Symptoms of Acute Appendicitis
- Symptoms come on Rapidly. At the beginning of acute appendicitis, there is abdominal pain in an uncertain location (such as near the navel or in the upper abdomen). After a few hours to half a day, the pain moves to the lower right abdomen, and the pain worsens when pressing the lower right abdomen.
- constipation , while some people have the opposite reaction of diarrhea .
- Fever up to 39°C (102°F), more severe in children.
- Occasional Vomiting .
- The stool contains blood.
Causes of Acute Appendicitis
Acute Appendicitis is primarily classified intochronicand acute. It is not an infectious or hereditary disease. Appendicitis typically develops due to tortuosity, swelling, and obstruction (such as fruit stones, fecal stones, or parasites) in the cecum, combined with bacterial infection. The symptoms and signs of acute appendicitis are more rapid and severe than those of chronic appendicitis.
Self Treatment:
Have the patient lie flat and rest. Place a hot water bottle on the abdomen to relieve pain. Do not give the patient food or drink, but a small amount of water may be used to moisten the mouth. If the pain persists after four hours, seek medical attention immediately.
Doctors typically order urine or blood tests before surgery to confirm the condition and avoid unnecessary surgery. The best treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal. Acute appendicitis must be treated within 48 hours; otherwise, a ruptured appendix can lead to peritonitis, a very dangerous condition .
Appendicitis is actually unpreventable, but it is important to recognize its symptoms to avoid delaying treatment, which may lead to the condition rupturing and causing peritonitis.
