Appendicitis is a serious medical condition, often requiring emergency treatment. This page on the eMedTV Web site provides an in-depth look at this condition, including symptoms, causes, treatment, and more.
As this part of the eMedTV library explains, the causes of appendicitis are usually due to a blockage inside the appendix. Feces can cause such a blockage, as can a bacterial or viral infection. This article discusses these and other possible causes.
Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are some possible early symptoms of appendicitis. This eMedTV article talks about the early signs and symptoms of this condition, and explains why appendicitis can be difficult to diagnose.
Pain in the abdomen, nausea, and constipation are possible appendicitis symptoms; however, they can vary. This eMedTV article lists possible signs and symptoms of this condition, and explains how other medical conditions can have an effect.
When diagnosing appendicitis, doctors generally start with the patient's symptoms and then move to tests. This eMedTV Web page explains in detail the procedures used in diagnosing this condition, such as an x-ray, CT scan, or laparoscopy.
The most common appendicitis treatment method is surgery, although antibiotics may be used first, depending on the cause of appendicitis. This eMedTV article explains appendicitis treatment methods, including when each is used and expected results.
Rupture of the appendix, abscess, and organ failure are possible complications of appendicitis. This eMedTV Web segment offers an in-depth look at what can happen when these and other problems arise.
Unfortunately, no one knows how to prevent appendicitis, but we do know how to prevent appendicitis symptoms from getting worse. By recognizing the symptoms this eMedTV article provides, you can avoid appendicitis-related complications.
Appendicitis has the same causes and treatment in children as in adults. As this eMedTV article explains, however, it can be hard to diagnose children with appendicitis. They can't always express what hurts, and doctors rely on less specific symptoms.
In most cases, early appendicitis symptoms in children are rare. If they do occur, they may appear as constipation, small stools with mucus, and fatigue. This eMedTV article discusses early appendicitis symptoms in children.
