How to Recognize the Symptoms of Appendicitis

Many individuals experience Appendicitis at some point in their lifetime. This is where the Appendix in the body becomes inflamed. The Appendix is a tube like structure that extends out from the intestine that is considered to be large. The tissue that the Appendix consists of is a special tissue. The reason for this is that it creates antibodies. Though little is actually known about this part of the body, medical professionals agree that it is quite possible to live a healthy life without the Appendix. If you experience complications with the Appendix, it is imperative that you learn to recognize the symptoms of Appendicitis. When there is a complication with the Appendix, it is considered necessary to remove it immediately. In this article, you will learn how to recognize the symptoms of Appendicitis. If you or someone you know starts to exhibit the symptoms listed in this article, it is crucial that you seek medical attention immediately. I experienced Appendicitis a few years back. I must admit that it was a horrible experience. I developed my first symptom shortly after midnight with absolutely no prior symptoms that something was wrong. My husband ended up calling an ambulance because within minutes, I was in immense pain. The first hospital that I went to did not do any testing and diagnosed me with a "stomach virus". I went back home. However, this was unlike any virus that I ever experienced in my life, and I knew that something else was wrong. I ended up going to an emergency room in a neighboring city in order to try to find some relief. Within a short time, a diagnosis of appendicitis was confirmed. I was quickly admitted and put in for emergency surgery. This was approximately 12 hours after the onset of the first symptom. My husband was informed that I may not make it through the surgery, and was even called halfway through the surgery to be told I still may not. I made it - obviously. However, for two weeks following the surgery, I had to wear a tube with a container that was inserted in my stomach. There was so much poison in my body that it had to continue to drain. If you have any of these symptoms, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately. If you do not, you may put yourself at risk for permanent damage, and even death.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• A general knowledge of the symptoms listed in this article.

1. Anyone, anywhere can develop Appendicitis..... The first thing that you should understand about Appendicitis is that it normally occurs in individuals that are between the ages of 9 and 30. It has been known to occur at any point in life, however, most of the cases occur in this age group. If you are part of this age group, you should be especially cautious of the symptoms that may indicate this serious condition.
2. Appendicitis can be very painful! The second thing that you should understand is that Appendicitis normally occurs as a result of a blockage. The blockage can be as simple as a foreign body and/or infection. It can be as complicated as cancer.
3. Stomach pain is normally the first symptom..... More than likely, the first symptom that you will experience with Appendicitis is a pain that is around the central area of your abdomen. At first, it may feel like a simple stomach ache, but then it will slowly start to become stronger. You will also notice that it will move towards the right side. The pain usually starts off kind of dull and then sharpens as time progresses.
4. Nausea is common... Once you start to feel pain, you may begin feeling nausea. Many people start vomiting. This is actually a very common symptom. If you experience this, as well as pain in the abdomen, or right side, you may have appendicitis. Loss of appetite may also become apparent.
5. High fever is common..... Many individuals who develop Appendicitis also develop a high fever. Many may even start to notice apparent swelling in the abdomen area. These symptoms reflect the infection that is occurring within the body. Do not think it will pass, as it will not. The only way to remove an infection caused by Appendicitis is to have the appendix completely removed by surgery.
6. Do NOT take any kind of medication!!! There are certain things that can cause an inflamed Appendix to rupture. Taking pain pills, or laxatives can lead to a ruptured appendix. It has been found that eating and drinking can also result in appendix rupture. You should also avoid ice packs and heating pads.
7. ******UPDATE******
   
   I recently discovered an article on WebMD that was written on October 12th 2007. It says that the Appendix may now actually have a purpose for the body. If you would like to read this article, it can be found at:
   
   http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/news/20071012/appendix-may-have-purpose

Tips & Warnings

• Do not wait! If you have any of these symptoms seek help IMMEDIATELY!