Appendicitis is defined as a swelling of the appendix, which is a little organ attached to the large intestine. Although it has an uncertain purpose in the body, it can be extremely painful when it becomes inflamed.
Causes of appendicitis include a blockage in the appendix, which can be due to trapped pieces of dried stool, food, tumors, scar tissue and worms. When there is blockage, pressure in the appendix can increase and inflammation can occur.
Symptoms include pain and swelling in the abdomen, pain when sneezing and coughing and breathing deeply, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhea, trapped gas and fever.
This condition is an emergency and the appendix is usually removed. However, it might take several hours to confirm a diagnosis before surgery.
Antibiotics are used to treat infections. You can’t currently prevent appendicitis, but to avoid a rupture, go to a hospital right away if you’re suffering from excessive abdominal pain.