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Appendicitis Symptoms

Common appendicitis symptoms include pain in the right lower abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. However, people who have appendicitis may not have all of the usual appendicitis symptoms. In addition, symptoms may be different or hard to diagnose in children, the elderly, and pregnant women. Those who experience possible appendicitis symptoms should see their doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

 

Appendicitis Symptoms: An Overview

People who have appendicitis may not have all of the common appendicitis symptoms, especially people with certain medical conditions, women who are pregnant, children, and the elderly. Symptoms of appendicitis can also be caused by other medical conditions, which is why people who experience possible appendicitis symptoms should see their doctor immediately, because only a doctor can diagnose and treat the problem.
 

Common Appendicitis Symptoms

Pain in the abdomen can be an early symptom of appendicitis. The pain may first appear around the belly button and then move toward the lower right area of the abdomen.
 
Other common appendicitis symptoms include:
 
  • Pain that intensifies when moving, taking deep breaths, coughing, or sneezing
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Inability to pass gas
  • Low fever that begins after other symptoms
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Feeling that a bowel movement will relieve the discomfort.
     
(Appendicitis Symptoms Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD