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Indications
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If the appendix becomes infected (appendicitis), it must be surgically removed (emergency appendectomy) before a hole develops (perforation) and spreads the infection to the entire abdominal space (peritonitis). Symptoms of acute appendicitis include:- abdominal pain (located in the lower right side)
- fever (elevated temperature)
- reduced appetite (anorexia)
- nausea (vomiting)
Your doctor will:- check the abdomen for tenderness and tightness
- check the rectum for tenderness and an enlarged appendix
- check the blood for an increase in white blood cells (WBC)
- perform a pelvic exam in women (to exclude pain caused by the ovaries or uterus)
As of now, there isn't a test to confirm appendicitis, and some of the symptoms may actually be caused by other illnesses. Your doctor will diagnose from the information you report, and from what he sees during your exam. Even if your doctor finds that the appendix is not infected (which can happen up to 25% of the time), he will thoroughly check the other abdominal organs and remove the appendix anyway.
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The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Copyright 2000 adam.com, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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