Appendicitis
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small finger-shaped pouch attached to the colon on the lower right side of the abdomen.
It typically causes pain in the lower right abdomen. In many cases, the pain begins near the belly button and gradually shifts to the lower right side. As the inflammation progresses, the pain usually becomes more intense and severe.
Appendicitis can occur at any age but is most common in individuals between 10 and 30 years old. Treatment generally involves antibiotics and, in most cases, surgical removal of the appendix.
Symptoms
- Sudden pain around the belly button that later shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen
- Sharp pain that begins directly in the lower right abdomen
- Pain that worsens with coughing, walking, or sudden movements
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low-grade fever that may increase as the condition progresses
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal bloating
- Difficulty passing gas
