Appendicitis is a result of inflammation in the appendix; appendix is a
small closed ended tube which is attached to the first part of colon.
Appendicitis usually occurs when the opening of the appendix into the colon is
blocked. The blockage occurs when the opening is filled with mucus or when
stool passing into rectum enters appendix and becomes rock hard causing
inflammation. It may occur when the tissue in the appendix swells and blocks
the opening of the appendix. Appendicitis occurs mostly occurs in the older
population.
Severe appendicitis left untreated may result in rupture of the appendix,
which leads to the leakage of infected material into the abdomen leading to
serious inflammation of the abdominal cavity. This condition can be fatal
unless treated with strong anti-biotic. The symptoms of appendicitis include:
sharp lower right abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, fever, cramps,
constipation etc and it is recommended to get medical assistance if one is
experiencing the symptoms of appendicitis.
Often to diagnose this condition, physical examination and tests to rule out
other gastric conditions are done. Blood test if done to check. if the body has
been fighting any infection so as to accurately diagnose this condition.
Appendicitis is usually treated through surgery. The infected appendix is
surgically removed in order to stop the appendix rupture as this may leak the
infected material into the abdomen.
Antibiotics are also used to treat this condition and sometimes are helpful
in treatment when rupture occurs in the appendix. In case leakage of infected
material in the appendix, the doctor may surgically drain out the infected
material in order to prevent further complications. There is no way to prevent
this condition from occurring, but, this condition is less common in those who
have regular intake of foods rich in fiber such as fruits and vegetables.
NOTE: IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT THE DOCTOR.