Current Treatment of Acute Appendicitis
In most cases, treating acute appendicitis involves surgery. Medication may be used if the doctor is unsure the patient has acute appendicitis. However, surgery will be necessary if the diagnosis is confirmed.
Complications of Acute Appendicitis
Serious complications associated with acute appendicitis may include:
- Rupture
- Peritonitis
- Abscess
- Organ failure
- Death.
Acute Appendicitis: A Summary
Key information about acute appendicitis includes:
- The appendix is a small, tube-like structure that is attached to the first part of the colon
- Acute appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix
- Acute appendicitis is considered a medical emergency
- Symptoms of the condition include pain in the abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, inability to pass gas, low-grade fever, and abdominal swelling
- A physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging tests are used to diagnose acute appendicitis
- Surgery to remove the appendix is required with acute appendicitis
- The most serious complication associated wiht the condition is rupture, which can lead to peritonitis and abscess.
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