Appendicitis Symptoms During Pregnancy
Many women who develop
appendicitis during pregnancy do not experience the common appendicitis symptoms. Pregnant women who experience pain on the right side of their abdomen should contact a doctor immediately. Women who are in their
third trimester are especially at risk of appendicitis.
Appendicitis Symptoms in Infants and Children
Infants and young children are usually more difficult to diagnose with appendicitis because they cannot communicate their symptoms with their parents or doctors. Without a clear explanation of symptoms, doctors must rely on a physical exam and less specific symptoms, such as vomiting and fatigue. While toddlers with appendicitis may have trouble eating and may seem unusually sleepy, children with appendicitis may have
constipation or small stools that contain mucus. Although appendicitis symptoms vary widely among children, parents should contact a doctor immediately if they think that their child has appendicitis.
Appendicitis Symptoms in the Elderly
The elderly often experience less fever and less severe abdominal pain than other patients who have appendicitis. Many older adults with appendicitis symptoms do not know that they have a serious problem until their appendix is close to rupturing. Older patients should call a doctor immediately if they are experiencing a slight fever and abdominal pain on the right side of their abdomen.
Other Conditions and Appendicitis Symptoms
Patients with certain medical conditions may not experience the common appendicitis symptoms. These conditions may include:
- Organ transplants
- HIV or AIDS
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- The use of immunosuppressive therapy such as steroids
- Cancer (or the use of chemotherapy).
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