Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Abdominal Pain — It Might Be Appendicitis
The appendix is a small pouch attached to your colon in the lower right side of your abdomen. Although its purpose isn’t known, it can cause big problems.
When the appendix opening gets blocked — by stool or swollen lymph nodes caused by a bacterial or viral infection — the whole organ becomes inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis. Once inflamed, it may rupture, a potentially life-threatening condition. Doctors can’t save an inflamed appendix. They must surgically remove it.
Most people with appendicitis experience some of these symptoms:
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abdominal pain, first around the navel but later in the lower right abdomen
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loss of appetite
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constipation or diarrhea
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inability to pass gas
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nausea or vomiting
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abdominal swelling other symptoms develop
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Generally, the abdominal pain gets worse when you move, take a deep breath, cough, or sneeze. You may also feel the urge to have a bowel movement to ease symptoms. If so, do not take laxatives or pain medication. Get to a doctor immediately.
Anyone can develop appendicitis, but most people get it between the ages of 10 and 30. Older adults, however, are more likely to suffer serious complications, because their symptoms are less noticeable. They may feel only mild abdominal pain and have no fever. Medical experts say if you are an older adult and experience a slight fever along with abdominal pain on your right side, call a doctor right away.
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