Appendicitis arises from the inflammation of a small, tube-like structure located at the start of the large intestine. Appendicitis pain usually begins distinctly in the lower right part of the abdomen and can become severe over time. It may also be accompanied by loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
What is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the organ located in the lower right region of the abdomen and part of the digestive system. This condition may develop due to blockages in the intestines, fecal residues, or infections. Appendicitis is considered a surgical disease requiring urgent intervention. If untreated, appendicitis may burst and lead to inflammation of the peritoneum.
What are the Symptoms of Appendicitis Pain?
Appendicitis inflammation can occur as a result of blockage and strangulation of the interior of the appendix. As the pressure within the organ increases, circulation is impaired, and inflammation may develop in this process.
Symptoms of appendicitis pain include:
-
Pain in the lower right region of the abdomen
-
Sensitivity and bloating around the abdomen
-
Fever
-
Nausea
-
Fatigue
-
Diarrhea or constipation
-
Pain that feels like a stabbing in the right abdominal area during daily movements
What Causes Appendicitis?
Appendicitis pain may result from the blockage of the appendix canal and the subsequent infection. Conditions causing this process include:
Fecal Blockage (Fecalith)
Small fecal particles filling the interior of the appendix can block the canal. In this case, bacteria inside multiply and inflammation develops.
Swelling of Lymph Tissue
Lymph tissue, a part of the immune system, may grow after viral infections. The swelling of tissues at the entrance of the appendix can narrow the canal, causing a blockage. Swelling of lymph tissue is among the common causes in children.
Virus-Induced Infections
Viral illnesses such as the common cold and upper respiratory infections can affect the body's general immune system, causing appendicitis pain.
Bacterial Infections
An imbalance in the bacteria inside the appendix or an overgrowth of external bacteria can directly initiate the inflammation process. As this condition progresses, appendicitis pain intensifies, and the risk of complications increases.
Tumors or Masses
Benign or malignant masses occurring in the appendix or surrounding tissues can block the appendix canal, causing inflammation.
Swelling and Inflammation of the Appendix
After blockage, the fluid and bacteria accumulating inside lead to swelling and inflammation of the appendix wall. This condition triggers the nerve endings, creating the characteristic appendicitis pain.
What are the Causes of Appendicitis Pain in Children?
In children, appendicitis pain can be caused by fecal accumulation, lymph nodes, or foreign bodies. This condition may increase the internal pressure of the appendix, leading to inflammation and subsequent rupture. Infection, inflammation, and genetic factors are also among the agents that can lead to the development of appendicitis.
How is Appendicitis Pain Recognized During Pregnancy?
Appendicitis during pregnancy is a serious condition that can pose risks for both the mother and the baby. However, due to anatomical changes during pregnancy, the diagnosis of appendicitis may be delayed, or the location of the pain may be perceived differently. Therefore, recognizing the symptoms of appendicitis in pregnant women is of great importance.
Pain Location May Change
Normally, appendicitis pain is felt in the lower right region of the abdomen, but in the advanced months of pregnancy, the expanding uterus may cause the appendix to move upwards. Therefore, the pain may be felt in the middle of the abdomen, the upper right quadrant, or under the ribs, depending on the week of pregnancy.
Other Symptoms Accompanying Abdominal Pain
-
Loss of appetite and nausea
-
Fever
-
Gas trouble
-
Hardening of the abdomen or increased pain when pressed
These symptoms can be confused with common complaints during pregnancy. This may cause a delay in the diagnosis of appendicitis.
Severe Pain Increasing with Movement
Typically, appendicitis pain does not remain constant; it intensifies when walking, coughing, or changing position. If there is a sudden onset and gradually intensifying localized abdominal pain, careful evaluation is necessary.
How Does Appendicitis Pain Start and Progress?
Appendicitis pain begins suddenly, and it may be difficult to notice in the initial hours. Most people initially start to feel vague discomfort in the abdominal area. This pain begins around the navel, gradually becomes more distinct, and can shift to the lower right part of the abdomen within a few hours.
The pain may initially be a mild ache but intensifies as the hours pass. It is also typical for pain to increase when walking, coughing, or with sudden movements. Many patients may express that the pain spreads gradually and restricts their daily activities.
In some individuals, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and mild fever may accompany the pain. As the inflammation of the appendix progresses, these symptoms may also intensify. Although the typical location of the pain is the lower right abdominal region, in certain special cases like pregnancy, the pain may be felt in different areas.
How is Appendicitis Treated?
Appendicitis treatment requires surgical intervention. This surgery is performed by removing the appendix. An appendectomy can be done either openly or laparoscopically. Today, laparoscopic surgeries are preferred with incisions of 5-10 mm, accelerating patients' recovery process and facilitating their return to normal life.
As appendicitis is an emergency, prompt intervention is required, and typically open surgeries are preferred. However, a closed method may be more suitable. Rarely, appendicitis may heal without surgery or be controlled with antibiotic treatment. However, if inflammation spreads, surgery may become necessary.
How is an Appendectomy Performed?
An appendectomy is a surgical procedure typically performed in cases of appendix inflammation. The surgery is carried out using laparoscopic surgical methods. In laparoscopic appendectomy, small incisions are made in the abdominal region, and the procedure is performed using cameras and surgical instruments. The aim during the surgery is to remove the appendix and clean the surrounding inflamed tissues.
The patient is required to undergo general anesthesia before the surgery. After the surgery, it is essential for the patient to stay in the hospital for a few days and complete the recovery process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is appendicitis pain on the right or left side of the abdomen?
Appendicitis pain is typically felt on the lower right side of the abdomen. It may start around the navel initially but usually settles in the lower right abdomen. Pain felt on the left side is generally not appendicitis-related and may indicate a different condition.
Does appendicitis pain go away on its own?
Appendicitis pain does not subside on its own. On the contrary, it increases over time, and as the inflammation progresses, the risk of complications may arise.
How long does appendicitis pain last?
Appendicitis pain intensifies within a few hours and continues. The appendix can burst within 24 hours; therefore, it is important to consult a doctor soon after the pain begins.
How is appendicitis recognized in children?
In children, appendicitis may present with abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The pain typically begins in the abdominal area and then spreads to the lower right section. Small children may not be able to describe the pain, so pay attention to behaviors such as restlessness, avoiding movement, and reacting to being touched on the abdomen.