Acute appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix) is considered a medical emergency. This eMedTV article covers topics such as the causes, symptoms, treatment, and complications associated with the condition.
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.
Only half of all patients with the condition have early appendicitis symptoms, which include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. This page of the eMedTV website lists early appendicitis symptoms and provides a link to more detailed information.
Abdominal pain, nausea, and loss of appetite are common appendicitis signs. This eMedTV segment provides a brief overview of these and other symptoms, and explains how other conditions need to be ruled out before making a definitive diagnosis.
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.
