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Signs of Appendicitis
Common signs of appendicitis include abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, and vomiting. However, less than 50 percent of people with the condition experience symptoms. In addition, symptoms may be different or hard to diagnose in children, pregnant women, and the elderly. If someone is experiencing possible signs or symptoms, a doctor should be seen immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
People who have appendicitis (especially those with certain medical conditions) may not have all of the common signs of the condition. Symptoms may also be different or hard to diagnose in pregnant women, children, and the elderly. What's more, these symptoms can be caused by other medical conditions, which is why people who experience possible signs of appendicitis should see their doctor immediately. Only a doctor can properly diagnose and treat the problem.
One early symptom of appendicitis is abdominal pain. The pain may first appear around the belly button and then move toward the lower-right area of the abdomen.
Other common signs of appendicitis include:
- Pain that intensifies when moving, taking deep breaths, coughing, or sneezing
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal swelling
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever that begins after other symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Inability to pass gas
- Feeling like a bowel movement will relieve the discomfort.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD