Tuesday, June 9, 2009

The Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Appendicitis

By Angkoon Anuwong

The appendix has always raised questions for medical experts since it does not have any specific purpose. Despite this, it may become inflamed and cause a serious condition known as appendicitis.

The appendix is around 3 and a half inches and is shaped like a finger. It is located on the lower right of the abdomen, and extends from the large intestine. No expert is sure exactly what the function of the appendix is, and it is often removed with no unfavorable consequence. However, when it becomes inflamed and filled with pus this results in appendicitis which can be extremely serious.

Its possible for anyone to develop appendicitis, though it is more common from the ages of 10 to 30.

If appendicitis develops it will require urgent medical attention. The organ should be removed, and there is no other alternative treatment. There is a high risk that an inflamed appendix could burst or perforate. If so, it will risk the patients life.

The cause of appendicitis could be when it becomes blocked by foreign bodies, or bodily waste. It can also be a complication of cancer, or be caused by an infection.

The Symptoms of Appendicitis

When the condition first develops, a pain will usually be felt around the navel. After time this pain will shift in location to the lower right side of the abdomen. When the condition gets worse the pain will keep increasing. In the course of around 6 to 12 hours the pain can go from a localized pain to completely debilitating for the sufferer.

There are a number of other symptoms associated with appendicitis, including nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal swelling, back pain, vomiting and more. Those with the condition will not usually experience all of these symptoms.

Available Treatments

When the condition occurs it may be difficult to diagnose due to the fact that symptoms may be vague and non-localized. They may also be confused with symptoms of other common illnesses such as urinary tract infection, gallbladder diseases and more. Property diagnosis requires a rectal exam and a number of other tests.

It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms of appendicitis.

If ever you are suffering from abdominal pain and have one or more of the symptoms as described above, then you should seek medical attention. It is also advisable to stop eating or drinking, not to take pain killers or antacids. You should also avoid any kind of heating pads as these can cause your appendix to burst. Fast medical attention is vital to successful treatment of this condition. You should visit the nearest emergency room as soon as you suspect appendicitis.

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