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All about the appendix
The appendix is a finger-shaped pouch that
projects out from your colon on the lower right side of your abdomen.
Usually it leads a trouble-free existence, until some food that is in
transit to your colon somehow makes its way into your appendix by
accident.
Though no age group is exempted from
contracting appendicitis, it is rare before the age of 2 years. It
becomes increasingly common during childhood and adolescence and the
maximum incidence is noticed between 20 to 30 years. The incidence
gradually drops with progress in age. Males are usually more affected
than females.
If left untreated, the appendix will
perforate within 24-72 hours, causing severe pain, vomiting and high,
sub-normal temperature. The whole abdomen has a "board-like" rigidity.
Perforated appendicitis can be fatal, especially in children, which is
why early detection is crucial.
On admission in the hospital, a careful
history will first be taken from the patient. The patient's abdomen is
then examined for signs of abdominal tenderness. The temperature, pulse
and blood pressure will be recorded. Blood and urine tests, X-rays of
the abdomen and chest, and a CT scan may also be done.
If a diagnosis of acute appendicitis is
made, the patient will be prepared for surgery. No oral intake will be
allowed henceforth.
The inflamed appendix is removed
through an operation called appendectomy. The surgery for an
unperforated appendix takes 20-40 minutes while a perforated appendix
takes more than an hour. Appendectomy patients usually require 2-3 days
stay in the hospital. A perforated appendix will require more than a
week's stay in the hospital.
Occasionally, acute appendicitis may
resolve by forming an appendicular mass which can be treated with
antibiotics, without surgery.
Danger signs
How can you tell if your stomach ache
is something more serious? Here are the danger signs:
- Severe abdominal pain, starting at
the navel and extending to rest of stomach
- Fever
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
However, not everyone with appendicitis
will have all these symptoms. If you suspect someone or yourself to have
an inflamed appendix, seek medical attention immediately.
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