The function of the appendix, which is attached to large intestine has puzzled scientists for centuries. However, appendicitis is a serious medical condition in which the appendix becomes inflammed. Once inflammation occurs, treatment is necessary because the appendix can burst, causing further infection and possibly death. Since their is no way to cure appendicitis without an appendectomy, the surgical removal of the appendix, physicians consider appendicitis to be a medical emergency.NDDIC: Appendicitishttp://www.umm.edu/non_trauma/append.htm

There are various causes that are thought to cause appendicitis, including viral infections in the intestinal tract or stool blockage at the point where the appendix connects to the large intestine. Rupture of the appendix can occur at up to 48 to 72 hours after the initial infection happens. Because of this risk, emergency surgical removal is necessary in each case. If you have pain in the lower right abdomen or near the navel which seems to get more severe over time, see the doctor quickly. http://www.umm.edu/non_trauma/append.htm

• Incidence: 4 per 100 childreneMedicine: Appendicitis
• 7% of the population will have an appendectomyeMedicine: Appendicitis
• Peak ages: 10 to 30 years of ageAmerican Family Physician: Acute Appendicitis: Review and Update (November 1, 1999)

Pain medications can mask some symptoms of this disease.

• Pain in lower right abdomen
• Pain around navel
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea or Constipation
• Fever that starts after other symptoms occur
• Swelling of the abdomen
• Difficulty or inability to pass gas
• Urinary or respiratory tract symptoms
  
  

Young children and women may have the pain located in a different area. Symptoms can occur due to other medical causes, so it is important to get a diagnosis by a doctor. mayo clinic appendicitis http://www.umm.edu/non_trauma/append.htm

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have appendicitis, please contact a doctor immediately. Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency!

• ClinicalTrials.gov: Appendicitis