What is acute appendicitis?

Acute appendicitis is a condition that can cause inflammation or infection of the appendix, an organ located near the large intestine. It most commonly affects individuals between the second and third decades of life.

In most cases, it causes moderate to severe pain and requires medical attention to avoid complications. In some situations, if left untreated, the worsening of symptoms can lead to death.

Symptoms of Acute Appendicitis

Initially, abdominal pain is the most common symptom and usually begins near the navel. Over time, it may spread to other areas, such as the lower right side, near the appendix.

Other common symptoms include:

nausea
vomiting
loss of appetite
low-grade fever
abdominal bloating
tenderness in the lower right abdominal region

In some cases, changes in bowel movements may occur, such as diarrhea or constipation.

Diagnosis

Doctors use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and additional tests to make a diagnosis.

During the physical exam, the physician may perform a test called the Blumberg sign, which involves gently pressing on the lower right abdomen and quickly releasing. If there is intense pain, it may indicate acute appendicitis.

In addition, other tests such as blood tests to detect signs of infection, abdominal ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) scans may be requested to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The standard treatment for acute appendicitis is the surgical removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy. It can be performed via laparoscopy (minimally invasive) or through conventional open surgery.

In laparoscopic appendectomy, small incisions are made in the abdomen through which surgical instruments and a video camera are inserted. The surgeon guides the instruments to precisely remove the inflamed appendix. This procedure usually results in faster recovery, less postoperative pain, and a lower risk of complications.

In open surgery, a larger incision is made in the abdomen to access the appendix. It is indicated in cases of advanced appendicitis, complications, or when laparoscopy is not feasible. After surgery, the patient may need a few days of hospitalization for monitoring and administration of antibiotics.

Prevention

The exact cause of acute appendicitis is not fully understood, but some measures can be taken to reduce the risk of developing it:

balanced diet: eating a diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help prevent intestinal obstruction, one of the main causes of acute appendicitis
personal hygiene: especially when handling food and after using the bathroom, helps reduce the risk of infections
avoid constipation: drink plenty of water, consume fiber, and exercise regularly
early treatment of infections: to prevent the spread of bacteria, fungi, or viruses to the appendix
avoid self-medication: it is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis

These measures do not guarantee complete prevention of acute appendicitis, as not all cases can be avoided. However, adopting healthy habits and seeking medical care contribute to overall good health.