Appendix pain adult

The appendix is a thin tail, tube or appendage growing out of the caecum, which is part of the large intestine located on the lower right side of the abdomen. The precise function of the appendix in the human body is something of a mystery, although it clearly plays a role in digestion for other animal species. Appendicitis means inflammation of the appendix. Food or faecal matter can sometimes lodge in the narrow tube of the appendix, and the blockage becomes infected with bacteria.

Appendicitis happens when the appendix becomes inflamed. Early symptoms can vary between age groups, and they can be confused with symptoms of other conditions. The symptoms can be uncomfortable, painful, and potentially life-threatening if left untreated, so it is important to be able to recognize them. Sudden appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdominal pain requiring surgery in the United States U. The appendix is about 4 inches long and is situated on the right, lower side of the abdomen. It is a tube-shaped piece of tissue that is closed at one end. It is attached to the cecum, a pouch-like portion of the colon, or large intestine.

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis is caused by a blockage of the hollow portion of the appendix. The diagnosis of appendicitis is largely based on the person's signs and symptoms.

Clinical features vary but typically include right lower-quadrant abdominal pain, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. Although there are many theorized etiologies, appendicitis is thought to occur primarily as a result of luminal obstruction that has progressed to inflammation, ischemia, and possibly perforation. Treatment is usually by appendectomy after appropriate fluid resuscitation, analgesia, and antibiotics. Emerging evidence suggests an antibiotic-treatment approach may be an alternative to surgery. Acute appendicitis is one of the most common causes of acute abdominal pain requiring emergent surgery.