Appendicitis is characterized by abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, back pain, and low-grade fever. It is important to seek medical attention immediately as a ruptured appendix can lead to a fatal infection. Diagnosis is confirmed through tests and surgery is usually required to remove the inflamed organ.
Appendicitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix. Of all the potential symptoms, abdominal pain is the most commonly reported. This pain may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting. Additional indicators of appendicitis can sometimes include constipation, back pain, or the development of a low-grade fever.
Abdominal pain is the most frequently reported of all potential symptoms of appendicitis. At first, it may be difficult for the patient to describe a particular area where the pain originates. In most cases, the pain eventually travels to the lower right area of the abdomen, where the appendix is located. Many patients describe this pain as excruciating and very different from any pain they have experienced before.
Abdominal pain may soon be followed by a decrease in appetite. This may be due to the extreme pain caused by this condition or the extreme nausea that often accompanies the pain. Some patients may begin to vomit uncontrollably due to intense nausea. This type of nausea is often the result of an intestinal blockage and should be considered a medical emergency.
Constipation is among the most common symptoms of appendicitis. Often there is also a feeling of bloating or gas-like pains. In many cases, the abdomen will appear visibly swollen. A low-grade fever is one of the usual symptoms of appendicitis, although the fever can get quite high if the appendix ruptures.
If any of the possible symptoms of appendicitis are present, it is important for the patient to receive immediate medical attention. If the appendix ruptures, a potentially fatal infection could develop. Once in the hospital, doctors will likely order some tests to determine the exact cause and severity of your symptoms. These tests often include a hand exam, blood tests to check for high white blood cell counts, and an X-ray or CT scan to determine if the appendix is inflamed or ruptured.
If the diagnosis of appendicitis is confirmed, the patient will likely be scheduled for immediate surgery to remove the inflamed organ. Depending on the severity of the condition, the patient may be able to go home the same day or may have to spend a few days in the hospital. Any questions or concerns about possible symptoms of appendicitis should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
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