What Is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is the inflammation of a pouch which is attached to the large intestine, remains quite small called balloon (Appendix). Once blocked or infected, it swells up, and without treatment, it may advance in stages of early irritation up to pus?filled, then gangrene (tissue death) and finally perforation (rupture) with serious infection being the consequence.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Obstruction of the appendix (often from hardened stool or foreign material)
- Bacterial or viral infection in the digestive tract
- Swelling of lymphatic tissue following a gut infection
- Family history of appendicitis
- Age�most common in teens and young adults, though it can occur at any age
Signs and Symptoms
- Sharp abdominal pain beginning around the belly button, then shifting to the lower right side
- Pain that worsens over time and becomes constant
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Low?grade fever
- In children: irritability, crying when the abdomen is touched, refusal to eat or drink
How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Appendicitis?
Dr. Rishi uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He examines your symptoms, when you started having pain and medical history then palpates your abdomen to determine the presence of tenderness and rebound pain.
Blood Tests
In detection of infection we check count of white blood cells as well as indicators of inflammation.
Imaging Studies
- Ultrasound: This is preferable to children and pregnant patients to identify inflamed appendix free of radiation.
- CT Scan: This offers images in high-detailed cross-sectional in adults to ensure that the inflammation or complications is confirmed.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
MRI or diagnostic laparoscopy can be used in cases that are rare or uncertain in order to help in clarifying the diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the four phases of appendicitis?
At an early stage, pus-filled (suppurative), dead tissue (gangrenous), and burst (perforated).
Is it possible to treat appendicitis without surgery?
Occasionally using antibiotics, surgery is however most frequently the most effective long-term remedy.
What is the duration of recovery of laparoscopic surgery?
Majority of the people feel increased in 1 to 2 weeks.
Can food cause appendicitis?
No, however a low-fiber diet could increase your risk.
Does the pain come and go?
It may initially, but tends to become stronger and permanent.
Do children receive special treatment?
Yes. Dr. Chadha applies ultrasound on children care teams and uses it first to prevent radiations.
When should I go to the ER?
When you are sharp pained in the belly, got a fever, or are brought up - go at once.
Will there be big scars?
No. Laparoscopic surgery results in three very small scars with each being less than one inch.
Is it possible to recover after a surgical procedure?
No. After the appendix has been taken away, it will never be there again.
Should I alter my postoperative diet?
You will soon be on your usual diet. Additional fibers could be beneficial to the recovery.