Appendicitis
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and can lead to rupture if untreated. It requires urgent medical assessment.
About appendicitis
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and can lead to rupture if untreated. It requires urgent medical assessment.
What can cause it?
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed, often after its opening is blocked.
Without treatment, the appendix may rupture and spread infection inside the abdomen.
What a patient may notice
Symptoms vary from person to person. Possible signs may include:
- Pain that often begins near the belly button and moves right
- Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
- Fever and worsening pain with movement
How clinicians find the cause
Emergency evaluation includes abdominal examination, blood and urine tests, and often ultrasound or CT imaging. A pregnancy test is commonly performed when relevant because pregnancy-related conditions can cause similar pain.
Treatment and next steps
- 1
Treatment usually includes antibiotics and surgical removal of the appendix, although selected cases may be managed differently by a surgical team.
- 2
A ruptured appendix may require drainage, longer antibiotics, and hospital care.
- 3
Do not delay emergency evaluation to try laxatives or home treatment.
Supporting recovery
- Go to the emergency department for suspected appendicitis.
- Avoid eating or drinking until the emergency team advises you because a procedure may be needed.
- Bring a medication list and note when pain and vomiting began.
What to expect
Most people recover well when appendicitis is diagnosed and treated promptly. Recovery is usually faster when the appendix has not ruptured. A rupture or abscess may require a longer hospital stay, drainage, additional antibiotics, and closer follow-up.
Possible complications
- Rupture of the appendix with infection of the abdominal lining (peritonitis)
- An abscess or other infection inside the abdomen
- Sepsis, bowel blockage, or infection of the surgical wound
When to Contact a Medical Professional
This condition can be life-threatening. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Do not delay care to visit urgent care.
Go to the emergency department now for suspected appendicitis. Do not delay evaluation.Get emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new chest pressure, fainting, seizure, sudden weakness on one side, uncontrolled bleeding, blue or gray lips, or a person who is difficult to wake.
Ways to lower risk
- There is no proven way to prevent appendicitis.
- Early recognition and treatment reduce the risk of rupture and complications.
Trusted health information
This CHS patient-education page uses original wording and links to MedlinePlus for additional information.