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CareNotes System - Appendicitis (General Information)
Appendicitis
GENERAL INFORMATION:
What is appendicitis? Appendicitis (ah-pen-dih-SI-tis) is an inflammation (swelling) of the appendix. Experts are unsure of the purpose of the appendix, but it can become infected. Appendicitis is most common in those 10 to 30 years old and usually affects men more than women. The appendix is a small pouch that is attached to the large intestine in the lower right side of the abdomen (stomach).
What causes appendicitis? The appendix may get blocked, swollen, and filled with pus. This may be caused by something trapped in the appendix, such as:
- Dried and hardened stool.
- Food.
- Lymph tissues that have become swollen due to germs, such as viruses.
- Other causes may include:
- Barium, a chemical that is used for some medical tests.
- Parasites, such as worms.
- Tumors.
What are the signs and symptoms of appendicitis? Symptoms may come on suddenly. The pain usually starts around the belly button and moves to the right lower side of your abdomen. The pain does not go away and worsens with moving, sneezing, coughing, deep breathing, or being touched. You may also have one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Abdomen feels rigid (hard).
- Diarrhea (loose watery bowel movements) or constipation (hard dry stools).
- Loss of appetite for food.
- Nausea (upset stomach) or vomiting (throwing up).
- Slight fever that usually begins after other signs and symptoms.
If the appendix ruptures (bursts), your temperature may increase and your pain may worsen and spread across the abdomen.
How is appendicitis diagnosed? You may have one or more of the following tests:
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Abdominal computerized tomography scan: This test is also called a "CT scan". A special x-ray machine uses a computer to take pictures of your abdomen.
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Abdominal ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to take pictures of your appendix, liver, and gallbladder.
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Blood tests: These tests are used to learn if you have an infection.
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Pregnancy test: Women of childbearing age with monthly periods will have this test. The test helps caregivers learn if your pain is from a uterine or ectopic (out of the uterus) pregnancy.
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Urine test: A urine sample is collected and sent to a lab for tests. This makes sure that a urine infection or a kidney stone is not causing your pain.
How is appendicitis treated? Removing your appendix by surgery, called an appendectomy, is the main treatment. If you need surgery, you will have a laparoscopic appendectomy or an open appendectomy. Ask your caregiver for more information about these procedures.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.
Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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