Early Appendicitis Symptoms in Children

Some of the early signs and symptoms that may indicate appendicitis in your child include constipation or small stools that contain mucus. However, early symptoms tend to occur less often in children than adults. Also, some children may have trouble explaining their symptoms clearly, so a healthcare provider may need to use other means (such as a physical exam) to reach a diagnosis.

What Are Some Early Signs and Symptoms of Appendicitis in Children?

Early appendicitis symptoms in adults can include:

Pain in the abdomen, first around the belly button, then moving to the right lower area
Nausea
Vomiting.

Early appendicitis symptoms in children are less common. 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.

Final Thoughts

Although appendicitis symptoms vary widely among children, parents should contact a doctor immediately if they think that their child has appendicitis. (Click Appendicitis in Children for more information.)