What happens when your appendix becomes inflamed? The appendix is a thin tube located in your lower right abdomen. Appendicitis happens when your appendix becomes inflamed. There is no exact cause of appendicitis, but experts believe that it develops when part of the appendix becomes obstructed. A hardened stool, enlarged lymphoid follicles, intestinal worms, traumatic injury, or tumors can block your appendix. Bacteria can grow inside your appendix when it gets blocked. When your appendix becomes blocked, bacteria can multiply inside it. This can lead to the formation of pus and swelling, resulting in painful pressure in your abdomen. If left untreated, you could develop an abscess or burst appendix. This can cause bacteria to enter your abdominal cavity, which can be serious and sometimes fatal.
Appendicitis is common among people between the ages of 10 and 30 years and having a history may also increase your risk especially if you are a man. Symptoms may vary and may include nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal swelling, pain in the upper and lower right part of your abdomen, and a loss of appetite. If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention. This can be a life-threatening condition and may require immediate medical intervention.
Appendicitis is a medical emergency. When the appendix ruptures, it may lead to a serious, deadly infection. As a result, in almost all situations, your healthcare provider will advise you to have surgery to remove your appendix. Normally, your recovery from an appendectomy will only last for few days if your appendix has not burst. If your appendix has burst, expect a prolonged healing time and the need to take medications such as antibiotics. Don't worry! With or without your appendix, you can still live a normal life.
ZDN DMO II Rowence F. Zorilla, RND
References:
1. What’s Causing Pain in My Lower Right Abdomen?
https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-in-lower-right-abdomen#appendicitis
2. Everything You Need to Know About Appendicitis
https://www.healthline.com/health/appendicitis#symptoms
3. What is appendicitis?
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/appendicitis
