Appendicitis
Definition
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This refers to the inflammation of the appendix as a result of an infection. The appendix is a part of the intestine that looks like an average-sized worm. It is a common condition in children and young adults and affects both males and females. It is worth noting that appendicitis can present as an emergency therefore early diagnosis and treatment are very important.
Risk factors
Some of the following can increase one’s chances of having appendicitis:
- Low fibre diets
- Constipation
- Parasitic infections
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Symptoms
People with appendicitis can have some of the following symptoms: abdominal pain that starts from the middle and moves to the right lower part of the abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal swelling.
Investigation
Before your doctor tells you that you have appendicitis, he or she may do some tests which include:
- A full blood count
- An abdominal ultrasound scan
- A CT scan
- An MRI
Treatment
Depending on the severity of the appendicitis, treatment can include or be a combination of:
- Antibiotics
- Pain relief
- Surgery
Complications
The most feared complication of appendicitis is a burst or rupture of the appendix which can lead to death. Other complications include an appendiceal mass or abscess.
