Symptoms and why assessment matters
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix near the start of the colon. Pain may begin around the navel and move to the lower right abdomen, but this pattern is not universal. Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and fever can accompany it. Children, older adults and pregnant people may present differently. Untreated disease can lead to perforation, an abscess or widespread infection.
How diagnosis is made
Diagnosis combines the history and abdominal examination with blood or urine tests and appropriate imaging. Ultrasound, CT or MRI is chosen according to age, pregnancy and the clinical circumstances. Ovarian conditions, urinary stones and bowel inflammation can produce similar pain. Early findings may be uncertain and repeated examination may be needed. A single reassuring test does not override persistent or worsening symptoms.
Surgery and antibiotic options
Appendectomy removes the inflamed appendix and is a common definitive treatment. Selected patients with confirmed uncomplicated disease may discuss antibiotics instead. They need to understand possible treatment failure, recurrence and later surgery. Risk features, including an appendicolith, can influence suitability. Widespread infection or deterioration may make delay unsafe. The decision also depends on reliable follow-up and access to prompt reassessment.
Operation or abscess treatment
Appendectomy is commonly laparoscopic, although open surgery may be required. The appendix is removed and sent for pathology, while contamination is assessed. A contained abscess can sometimes be treated initially with antibiotics and image-guided drainage. Subsequent surgery or colon evaluation depends on age, imaging and clinical progress. Follow-up remains important after nonoperative abscess treatment, including assessment for an underlying lesion when appropriate.
Risks and recovery expectations
Complications include wound infection, abdominal abscess, bleeding, delayed bowel activity and anaesthetic problems. Adhesional obstruction or a hernia can occur later. Recovery after perforation differs from recovery after limited inflammation. Hospital stay, antibiotic treatment and return to work therefore need individual instructions. Other conditions also matter. Unexpected pathology may require further assessment, so the specimen result should be reviewed rather than assumed to be routine.
Preparation and care after discharge
Tell the team about recent food or drink, medicines, allergies and possible pregnancy. Hospital staff arrange fluids and necessary treatment. After surgery, follow instructions for eating, walking, wound care and pain relief. Lifting and sport depend on the wounds and disease severity. Use prescribed antibiotics as directed. Arrange help at home when needed and confirm how follow-up and pathology results will be communicated.
When to seek emergency assessment
Progressive abdominal pain with suspected appendicitis needs prompt assessment. Pain spreading across the abdomen, fever, repeated vomiting or marked weakness are concerning. After surgery, worsening pain, swelling, fever, pus from the wound or inability to drink should be reported quickly. Fainting, breathlessness, chest pain or rapid deterioration require emergency care. Temporary symptom relief should not be used to postpone reassessment when concern remains.
This information is general. The cause of symptoms, appropriate investigations and treatment options are determined through individual assessment.