Introduction

Appendicitis is a medical condition in which the appendix an organ located in the lower right side of the abdomen becomes inflamed and infected. While the appendix itself may not serve a critical function in the body, its inflammation can cause serious complications if not addressed in time. One of the biggest challenges with appendicitis is identifying its symptoms early. Since it shares similarities with other abdominal issues, people often overlook the signs until the infection becomes severe. Understanding the symptoms of appendicitis is essential to seeking timely treatment and preventing complications such as rupture or sepsis. Here, focuses on the main symptoms of appendicitis, how they may progress, and when to consider it an emergency.

Symptoms of Appendicitis

Abdominal Pain That Worsens Over Time :- One of the first and most common symptoms of appendicitis is abdominal pain. It often starts as a dull discomfort near the belly button or upper abdomen. Over the next several hours, the pain typically shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen known as the McBurney’s point. The pain may intensify when you move, walk, cough, or touch the area. Unlike general stomach discomfort, this pain is persistent and tends to worsen steadily rather than improving with rest or medication. In children and pregnant women, the pain may appear in different areas, which can make diagnosis more difficult.
Loss of Appetite :- A sudden and unexplained loss of appetite is often seen in individuals with appendicitis. People may not feel like eating anything, even their favorite meals. This symptom, when paired with abdominal discomfort, can be an early sign of inflammation in the appendix. It’s usually not an isolated symptom but adds to the pattern of changes that indicate something is wrong internally.
Nausea and Vomiting :- Nausea and vomiting are common gastrointestinal responses to inflammation. These symptoms often appear after the abdominal pain begins. Unlike food poisoning or stomach flu, the vomiting in appendicitis does not provide relief and continues as the condition worsens. This is because the body is reacting to the irritation in the abdominal cavity and trying to expel contents unnecessarily. In some cases, people may also experience bloating, a tight feeling in the stomach, or an inability to pass gas adding to the overall discomfort.
Fever and Chills :- As the infection in the appendix progresses, the body may develop a low-grade fever. This fever usually ranges between 99°F to 100.5°F (37.2°C to 38°C). In more severe cases, especially if the appendix has ruptured, the fever may spike higher, and chills may follow. This combination indicates that the body is fighting off a spreading infection and needs immediate medical intervention. A high fever with chills may also suggest that the infection has entered the bloodstream, leading to a potentially life-threatening condition called sepsis.
Changes in Bowel Habits :- Appendicitis can cause noticeable changes in bowel movements. Some people may experience constipation, while others may have diarrhea. Urinary symptoms, such as increased urgency or pain while urinating, can also occur if the swollen appendix is near the urinary tract. These changes often confuse people and are mistaken for common stomach infections. However, when combined with other symptoms like persistent pain and nausea, these bowel changes are a red flag.
Swelling and Tenderness in the Abdomen :- The lower right abdomen often becomes tender to touch, and any pressure applied to the area can cause sharp pain. This is especially evident when the area is gently pressed and then released causing what’s called rebound tenderness. Swelling in the abdominal region is another sign that the body is reacting to internal inflammation. This tenderness and swelling can make even simple movements like walking, sitting, or coughing extremely painful, further indicating a need for medical attention.
Fatigue and General Weakness :- As with any infection, appendicitis can make the person feel unusually tired and weak. This is a result of the body directing its energy toward fighting the infection, leaving less energy for daily functions. The fatigue may seem excessive compared to the level of physical activity and can become worse over time. People may find it difficult to stay alert, work, or perform even basic tasks, especially if nausea and fever accompany the tiredness.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Appendicitis can become a medical emergency if left untreated. The inflamed appendix can rupture within 24 to 72 hours after the onset of symptoms, spilling infected material into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to a condition known as peritonitis, which is life-threatening.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you or your child experiences:

Severe pain in the lower right abdomen
Vomiting and nausea that don’t subside
High fever with abdominal tenderness
Inability to move without increasing the pain

Doctors typically perform a physical examination, blood tests, urine tests, and imaging scans like ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the diagnosis.

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of appendicitis early can prevent serious complications. While abdominal pain is the most prominent sign, it’s the combination of pain with nausea, fever, loss of appetite, and tenderness that forms a more accurate picture. Every individual may experience appendicitis slightly differently, but persistent and worsening symptoms should never be ignored.

Timely surgery, usually in the form of laparoscopic appendectomy, can resolve the issue safely and quickly. Understanding these symptoms is not only useful for patients but also for caregivers and parents who must make fast decisions for young children. Early detection saves lives, reduces hospital stay, and lowers the chances of further infection.

If you suspect appendicitis in yourself or someone you care for, consult a doctor immediately for evaluation and appropriate treatment.