Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small, worm-shaped pouch attached to the beginning of the large intestine. The appendix has no known job in the human body, and doctors often view it as a leftover from our evolutionary past. Some researchers think it may store helpful bacteria, but people who have it removed do not run into any health problems from losing it.
The trouble starts because of the appendix’s narrow shape, which makes it easy to block. Once it is blocked, bacteria can build up and cause the appendix to swell and fill with pus. If it is not treated quickly, the appendix can burst and spread infection through the abdomen. That makes appendicitis a true medical emergency.
Signs and symptoms of appendicitis
The most well-known sign of appendicitis is belly pain. It often starts as a dull ache near the belly button, then moves to the lower right side of the abdomen and grows sharper over time. Where you feel the pain can vary based on your age and the exact position of your appendix, so it does not always follow the same pattern for everyone.
Along with pain, appendicitis usually brings other symptoms. Common ones include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal bloating
- Diarrhea or constipation
If you or a family member develops these symptoms, especially abdominal pain that keeps getting worse, it is important to be seen right away. Getting to an emergency room quickly can confirm the diagnosis before the appendix has a chance to rupture.
How appendicitis is diagnosed
Doctors can often spot appendicitis by reviewing your symptoms and doing a physical exam. To be sure, they may order a few additional tests to rule out other causes of belly pain. These can include a CT scan or ultrasound, a urine sample, and blood work. Together, these tools help the care team confirm what is going on and act fast.
How appendicitis is treated
Appendicitis is considered a surgical emergency because it can turn into a life-threatening infection in a short amount of time. In most cases, the appendix needs to be removed as soon as possible. This procedure is called an appendectomy. Since the appendix does not serve an important purpose, removing it does not cause any long-term problems, and most people recover well.
Why fast care makes the difference
The biggest danger with appendicitis is waiting too long. What starts as mild belly pain can become a burst appendix and a serious infection within hours. Listening to your body and getting checked early gives you the best chance at a smooth, uncomplicated recovery.
Trusted 24/7 emergency care in Houston and Sugar Land
If you think you or a loved one may have appendicitis, do not wait it out at home. Life Savers ER is open around the clock with board-certified physicians, an on-site lab, and a CT scanner for fast, accurate diagnosis, all with no wait. Your emergency is our priority. Visit or call one of our 24-hour locations: Willowbrook Emergency Room, Heights Emergency Room, Summerwood Emergency Room, or Mercy ER Sugar Land. You can also check in online before you arrive.
