Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Appendix Inflammation?

M.C. Huguelet
M.C. Huguelet

Appendix inflammation, commonly known as appendicitis, is a potentially serious medical condition in which the appendix, a small, fleshy tube which protrudes from the large intestine, becomes swollen. It often occurs in response to infection or blockage of the intestinal tract. Generally, appendix inflammation is accompanied by a number of unpleasant and even painful symptoms. As an inflamed appendix can burst, which can in turn lead to a life-threatening infection of the abdominal tissue, physicians usually recommend the immediate removal of the swollen appendage.

Often, appendix inflammation occurs in response to an infection of the intestinal tract. It may also occur when the appendix becomes blocked by waste, a growth such as a cyst or tumor or a foreign object. In many cases, however, the cause of appendix inflammation is unknown.

The inflammation of the appendix is known as appendicitis.
The inflammation of the appendix is known as appendicitis.

Generally, an individual with appendix inflammation becomes aware of his condition when he experiences one or more of its typical symptoms. Perhaps the most universal symptom of appendix inflammation is pain which begins around the navel and then travels to the lower right portion of the abdomen over the course of a few hours. Often this pain is mild at first, but becomes more acute as it travels. Other common symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Appendix inflammation, also known as appendicitis, requires surgery.
Appendix inflammation, also known as appendicitis, requires surgery.

As the symptoms of appendix inflammation can be similar to those of several other illnesses, such as gastroenteritis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the condition can be difficult to diagnose. If a physician suspects appendix inflammation, she will likely perform a physical examination of the abdomen to check for swelling, and she may draw a blood sample to test for infection. She may also order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or computerized tomography (CT) scan, so that she can study the appendix.

CT scans can be useful to study the appendix and determine if any inflammation is present.
CT scans can be useful to study the appendix and determine if any inflammation is present.

An inflamed appendix can burst, which can in turn lead to a life-threatening infection of the abdominal tissue, a condition known as peritonitis. Therefore, if it seems possible that a patient has appendicitis, his physician will generally recommend the immediate removal of the appendix. This procedure, known as an appendectomy, usually requires a two- to four-week recovery period, and may leave a small scar on the abdomen. It is generally agreed that the benefits of an appendectomy greatly outweigh these inconveniences, however. Removing a swollen appendix before it bursts can prevent more serious health issues, and as the appendix serves no known function, its removal has no negative medical consequences.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • The inflammation of the appendix is known as appendicitis.
      By: p6m5
      The inflammation of the appendix is known as appendicitis.
    • Appendix inflammation, also known as appendicitis, requires surgery.
      By: derege
      Appendix inflammation, also known as appendicitis, requires surgery.
    • CT scans can be useful to study the appendix and determine if any inflammation is present.
      By: Tyler Olson
      CT scans can be useful to study the appendix and determine if any inflammation is present.
    • Appendix inflammation often occurs in response to an infection of the intestinal tract.
      By: ancroft
      Appendix inflammation often occurs in response to an infection of the intestinal tract.
    • The symptoms of appendix inflammation can be difficult to diagnose and can be confused with other conditions.
      By: JackF
      The symptoms of appendix inflammation can be difficult to diagnose and can be confused with other conditions.
    • A ruptured appendix may occur when the appendix becomes severely inflammed.
      By: Alliance
      A ruptured appendix may occur when the appendix becomes severely inflammed.