Appendicitis information

 Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is located in the lower right portion of the abdomen. The appendix is a small pouch connected to your large intestine.

 It is believed that appendicitis begins when the opening from the appendix into the cecum becomes blocked. The blockage may be due to a build-up of thick mucus within the appendix or from feces that enters the appendix from the cecum. The main symptom of appendicitis is pain that typically begins around your navel and then shifts to your lower right abdomen. The pain of appendicitis usually increases over a period of six to 12 hours, and eventually may become very severe. Sometimes the pain becomes so crucial it can be very hard to walk, or even to just stand straight. Symptoms of acute appendicitis can be classified into two types, typical and atypical.

 The typical pain is usually associated with loss of appetite and fever. Atypical symptoms may include pain beginning and staying in the right iliac fossa, (located below)

diarrhea and is more prolonged. In children who are 2 years old or younger, the most common symptoms of appendicitis are vomiting. The cause of appendicitis relates to blockage of the inside of the appendix, known as the lumen. The blockage leads to increased pressure, impaired blood flow, and inflammation. 

Traumatic injury to the abdomen may lead to appendicitis in a small number of people. Genetics may be a factor in others. The most serious complication of appendicitis is rupture. Infants, young children, and older adults are at highest risk. A ruptured appendix can lead to peritonitis and abscess. Peritonitis is a dangerous infection that happens when bacteria and other contents of the torn appendix leak into the abdomen.

 Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency. Appendicitis is treated by removing the inflamed appendix through an appendectomy. Antibiotics given intravenously such as cefuroxime and metronidazole may be administered early to help kill bacteria, in some cases ciprofloxacin may be administrated to bring down swelling. Avoid eating or drinking as this may complicate or delay surgery. If you are thirsty, you may rinse your mouth with water, if you're at a hospital you will have an I.V take care of your hydration. Do not take (or give your child) laxatives, antibiotics, or pain medications because they may cause delay in diagnosis and risk rupture of the appendix or mask the symptoms. Usually after the surgery is completed you will be given laxatives to help you empty out your intestines. Preoperative antibiotics have demonstrated efficacy in decreasing postoperative wound infection.
Broad-spectrum gram-negative and anaerobic coverage is indicated. Preoperative antibiotics should be given in conjunction with the surgical consultant.

Quick facts:

1. Appendicitis is more common in woman then men. 

2. Appendicitis is more common in people who have high fiber diets. 

3. Appendicitis can lead to death and seizures, if you're having abdominal pain it's best to get checked out.