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Information on Appendicitis
Appendicitis, or inflammation of the appendix, is a potentially serious condition. A person with appendicitis may experience early symptoms such as abdominal pain (stomach pain). The pain may first appear around the belly button and then move toward the lower-right area of the abdomen.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Pain that intensifies when moving, taking deep breaths, coughing, or sneezing
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal swelling.
In order to make an appendicitis diagnosis, your healthcare provider will need information on your symptoms and medical history. In addition, you may be given a physical exam and may need to undergo certain tests. Tests that are used to make a diagnosis can include:
- Laboratory tests, such as blood tests
- Imaging tests (computed tomography scan, ultrasound, x-ray)
- Surgery.
Those who experience possible signs or symptoms of an appendicitis attack should see their healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
(Click Appendicitis for more detailed information on this topic. This article takes an in-depth look at how this condition is treated, why it occurs, who is at risk, and more.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD