Appendicitis is defined as an inflammation of an airbag on your large intestine called the appendix. In cases whereby the appendix is blocked by stool, tissue, or infection-bacteria, the bacteria can multiply within the appendix. Failure to treat it means the appendix could rupture and result in a life-threatening infection that is serious. There should be early diagnosis and prevention of complications by way of diagnosis and treatment.
Appendicitis symptoms can vary by age and stage of inflammation, but often include:
The exact trigger for appendicitis isn't always known. Common causes and contributing factors include:
In case of possible appendicitis, timely, qualified medical services may be the difference. Our gastroenterologists do not have to work long before they find collaborators at GastroDoxs in Katy where they can rely on professional surgeons to provide diagnosis-complete, including on-site CT imaging-and custom treatments, whether it is a simple appendectomy situation or an antibiotic treatment effect. Our values include patient-focused care and compassion at all stages, which will help you resume feeling better about yourself. Get off now-book today and control your digestive health.
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Appendectomy is performed by a general surgeon, while a gastroenterologist can evaluate symptoms, run diagnostic tests, and coordinate care prior to surgery.
Children may experience abdominal pain (starting near the belly button and shifting to the lower right abdomen), fever, irritability, vomiting, loss of appetite, or swollen abdomen.
Pain can initially be intermittent and crampy, progressing later to a dull, persistent ache in the lower right abdomen.
Occasionally, pain may appear on the left side if the appendix is abnormally positioned or longer than usual. Pain can also radiate to the lower back or hip if the appendix is located toward the back of the abdomen.
Diagnosis involves physical examination, blood tests to detect infection, and imaging (usually a CT scan) to confirm inflammation of the appendix.
The general ICD-10 code for acute appendicitis is K35.80. Doctors may select a more specific code depending on severity and type.
An appendectomy typically takes 45-60 minutes. Most patients are discharged the same day, though some may require an overnight stay.
While mild cases may respond to antibiotics, surgery remains the standard treatment for most patients.
Go to the ER immediately if you experience sudden abdominal pain accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting, or inability to keep fluids down, especially without prior similar episodes.
