A – Z of Illnesses & Conditions

Appendicitis: Appendicitis is a condition which arises when the appendix is inflamed. The appendix is a small, worm-like appendage attached to the colon. Inflammation occurs when bacteria invade and infect the wall of the appendix. The most common complications of appendicitis are abscess and peritonitis.

The most common symptoms of appendicitis are loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, fever, vomiting and abdominal tenderness. Due to the varying size and location of the appendix and the proximity of other organs to the appendix, it may be difficult to differentiate appendicitis from other abdominal and pelvic diseases.

Medical Emergency: You should call for an ambulance if you have pain that suddenly becomes and continues to get worse and spreads across your abdomen. These are signs that your appendix may have burst, which can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.

Appendicitis Organisation
Appendicitis - The BMJ
https://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d5976