Appendicitis Symptoms
An individual can develop symptoms of appendicitis when the appendix becomes infected and inflamed. The appendix is connected to one’s large intestine and the reasons for the existence of the appendix are unknown since it does not really do anything in the body. Thus, an appendix can be removed in the event that one develops symptoms of appendicitis, without any unusual side effects or without hindering proper bodily functioning. Should one’s appendix become infected and inflamed, it proves to be a very dangerous situation for the individual suffering from appendicitis. The condition is not only painful, but if the appendix is not removed, it could result in the death of the individual.
Symptoms of appendicitis will vary among individuals. The most typical symptom one will develop is pain in the lower right side of the abdomen where the appendix is located. The pain that an individual experiences may actually start in the region of the belly button and extend into the lower right side as time passes. There are a number of other symptoms that may or may not accompany the pain one experiences with the onset of appendicitis. For instance, an individual with appendicitis may develop symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, light headedness, diarrhea, a low-grade fever, sweating, and chills with the onset of the disorder.
If an individual develops the common symptoms of appendicitis, they should seek the assistance of a medical professional immediately. The appendix, if infected, may burst, causing severe complications in the individual. Such complications can result in death, and the appendix must be surgically removed if it is infected. The symptoms of appendicitis are similar and both adults and children seemingly present signs of the disorder in a similar manner. Whether one is an adult or a child, ultimately the appendix must be removed to return the individual to a physical state of optimal health.
When appendicitis is treated by medical professionals, the individual suffering from appendicitis will undergo a surgical procedure through the use of a general anesthetic. A qualified surgeon will enter the individual’s abdomen on the lower right side by making small incisions. The surgeon will make the smallest incisions possible to minimize the scarring one has after the cut heals. The surgeon will rely on a laparoscope to remove the appendix, and the individual will face 21 to 28 days in terms of recovery time. During recovery, an individual may have to deal with minor pain, may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection, may be prescribed pain medication to deal with pain, and can expect to have his or her activities limited until proper healing of the abdomen can occur.