What is Appendicitis? Types, Stages, Causes, and How it’s Treated

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. Typically, the pain will begin around the belly button and will ultimately travel to the lower right side of the abdomen. It grows increasingly harsh with time and has a few other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite.

The condition will progress rapidly, and once it does, the inflamed appendix will rupture, spreading infection into the abdominal cavity (peritonitis), an acute medical emergency that can prove fatal if left unattended.

The good thing is that with modern diagnostics and treatments, especially for appendicitis in reputed hospitals such as Kumaran Medical Center in Coimbatore, treatment and management of appendicitis can be effectively undertaken. Let us see the types, stages, causes, symptoms, and possible treatment of the disease.

Types of Appendicitis

Appendicitis can be classified into two major types based on the speed of onset and severity:

1. Acute Appendicitis

This is the more common and more dangerous form. It occurs suddenly and develops rapidly typically within 24 to 48 hours. The patient has sharp abdominal pain, fever, and other signs. Appendicitis needs to be attended to right away with surgery to remove the appendix and avoid rupture.

2. Chronic Appendicitis

Chronic appendicitis is more difficult to diagnose. In this form, inflammation of the appendix may persist over weeks, months, or even years. The symptoms are often milder, such as dull abdominal pain and digestive discomfort, but they tend to recur frequently.

Even though chronic appendicitis is less dramatic in presentation, it can still lead to complications if not properly treated.

Stages of Appendicitis

The progression of appendicitis occurs in several distinct stages:

1. Early Stage

The first stage involves the blockage of the appendix’s lumen (opening). This could be due to stool, a foreign body, or even swelling of lymph tissue. Pain is usually moderate and may be felt near the navel.

2. Suppurative Stage

In this stage, pus starts forming within the appendix due to infection. The pain moves to the lower right abdomen and becomes sharper. The appendix wall becomes inflamed and distended.

3. Gangrenous Stage

If left untreated, the flow of blood to the appendix decreases. The tissue begins to die, and the risk of rupture increases significantly. The body’s immune response may begin to wane, and systemic symptoms worsen.

4. Perforated Stage

This is the most severe stage. The appendix ruptures, spilling infectious materials into the abdominal cavity. This leads to peritonitis – a potentially fatal condition that requires emergency surgery.

Causes of Appendicitis

Appendicitis is usually caused by a blockage in the lining of the appendix. This obstruction can be the result of:

• Fecaliths (hardened stool)
• Enlarged lymphoid follicles
• Worms or parasites
• Trauma
• Tumors
• Gastrointestinal infections

When the appendix is blocked, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which leads to infection, inflammation, and eventually, rupture if untreated.

Appendicitis can affect anyone, but certain groups are more at risk:

Who Is at Risk?

• Age Group: Most common in people aged between 10 and 30.
• Gender: Slightly more common in males.
• Diet: A diet low in fiber and high in processed foods might increase risk.
• Family History: Genetic predisposition may play a role.

Symptoms of Appendicitis

It’s essential to recognize the early signs of appendicitis to seek timely treatment. Symptoms may include:

• Sudden pain near the navel that shifts to the lower right abdomen
• Pain that worsens with movement, coughing, or sneezing
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Abdominal bloating or gas
• Diarrhea or constipation

If anyone experiences these symptoms, seeking medical evaluation immediately is necessary. Kumaran Medical Center, known for its experienced surgical team and emergency care facilities, can help ensure quick diagnosis and treatment.

How is Appendicitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination, where a doctor checks for tenderness in the lower right abdomen. Additional tests may include:

• Blood tests to check for infection
• Urine tests to rule out urinary tract issues
• Ultrasound or CT scans to visualize the appendix
• MRI in certain cases, particularly in pregnant women

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage and severity of the appendicitis.

1. Medications

In cases of very mild or early-stage appendicitis, doctors may try antibiotics to control the infection and inflammation. However, this is not a long-term solution and often leads to recurrence.

2. Surgery (Appendectomy)

This the most effective surgical treatment is of the appendix. There are two main approaches:

• Laparoscopic Appendectomy: Minimally invasive, involving small incisions. Faster recovery and less post-op pain.
• Open Appendectomy: Recommended if there is an abscess or if the appendix has already ruptured.

At Kumaran Medical Center, both laparoscopic and open surgeries are performed using modern techniques, supported by a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

3. Post-Surgery Care

Recovery from an appendectomy may take certain weeks. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, follow a prescribed diet, and complete their course of antibiotics if needed. With timely treatment, most individuals recover completely without any long-term complications.

Final Thought

To conclude, appendicitis is a serious condition that demands immediate medical attention. By understanding the types, stages, causes, symptoms, and treatments of appendicitis, individuals can be better prepared to act swiftly. Whether it’s for diagnosis, surgical intervention, or recovery, institutions like Kumaran Medical Center stand as a beacon of trust, care, and medical excellence. If you suspect appendicitis, don’t delay early treatment can make all the difference.

Dr. T. S. Ramesh Kumar., MD., DM

GASTROENTROLOGY