All about appendicitis  causes of appendicitis symptoms of appendicitis diagnosis of appendicitis treatment for appendicitis appendectomy Articles in emergencies of digestive system -
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What are the symptoms of appendicitis?
The most common signs and symptoms of appendicitis are abdominal pain, tenderness, vomiting and fever. The pain may be around the navel (belly button) but soon moves to the lower right portion of the abdomen. The most painful area is located halfway between the hip bone and the navel, but may vary. The child may be bent over with the pain and may prefer lying down on the left side with the knees drawn up to the chest. Vomiting, and refusal to eat may be other signs of appendicitis. Diarrhea may be present.
The pain of appendicitis usually starts centrally (periumbilical) before localising to the right iliac fossa (the lower right side of the abdomen). There is usually associated anorexia (loss of appetite). Fever is usually present. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may or may not occur. There is typically pain and tenderness in the right iliac fossa. Rebound tenderness may be present suggesting that there is some element of peritoneal irritation. If the abdomen is guarded, there should be a strong suspicion of peritonitis requiring urgent surgical intervention. |
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More information on appendicitis
What is appendicitis? - Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis is the most common abdominal emergency found in children and young adults.
What causes appendicitis? - The causes of appendicitis are believed to occur as a result of an obstruction within the appendix, the development of an ulceration, and the invasion of bacteria.
What are the symptoms of appendicitis? - The most common signs and symptoms of appendicitis are abdominal pain, tenderness, vomiting and fever.
How is appendicitis diagnosed? - Appendicitis is diagnosed based upon the patient's symptoms, a physical examination including a rectal examination, blood tests to check for signs of infection.
What's the treatment for appendicitis? - The treatment of appendicitis is an immediate appendectomy. This may be done by opening the abdomen in the standard open appendectomy technique.
How is an appendectomy done? - An appendectomy (or appendicectomy) is the surgical removal of the vermiform appendix. Appendicectomy may be performed laparoscopically or as an open operation. |
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