Appendicitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects thousands of Australians every year. It occurs when the appendix—a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine—becomes inflamed and infected. If not treated promptly, the appendix can rupture, leading to severe complications such as peritonitis or abscess formation. In this article, we explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for appendicitis, specifically in the Australian healthcare context.
- What are the causes of appendix?
- Where does appendix pain start?
- How to reduce appendix pain?
- What are the early warning signs of appendicitis?
- How to check appendix at home?
- What causes appendix in food?
What Causes Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is usually caused by a blockage in the appendix, often from hardened stool, a foreign object, or even an infection. This blockage can lead to bacterial overgrowth, swelling, and eventually infection. If the pressure builds up too much, the appendix can burst—turning a simple infection into a medical emergency.
Common Symptoms of Appendicitis
Recognising the symptoms early is crucial. The most notable symptom is abdominal pain, often starting around the belly button and moving to the lower right side of the abdomen. Other symptoms include:
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Increased pain with movement, coughing, or sneezing
In Australia, health professionals urge people to take these symptoms seriously. A delayed diagnosis can lead to a ruptured appendix, which significantly increases the risk of complications.
How Is Appendicitis Diagnosed in Australia?
Doctors in Australia typically begin with a physical examination to assess pain levels and areas of tenderness. Blood tests are used to check for infection, and imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes of abdominal pain.
In regional areas, some patients may be referred to larger hospitals for imaging, which is more readily available in metropolitan centres like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane.
Treatment Options for Appendicitis
The gold standard for treating appendicitis in Australia is an appendectomy—surgical removal of the appendix. This can be done via traditional open surgery or, more commonly, laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, which involves smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
In some cases, especially when surgery must be delayed or if the appendicitis is mild, antibiotics may be used to manage the infection. However, surgery is usually recommended to prevent recurrence.
Possible Complications
If left untreated, a swollen appendix can burst, spreading bacteria throughout the abdominal cavity. This can cause peritonitis, a serious infection that requires urgent medical attention. Another possible complication is the formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that may require drainage.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, delayed treatment increases the risk of hospitalisation and longer recovery times.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
If you or your child experience abdominal pain that worsens over time, especially if it’s localised to the lower right abdomen, don’t delay—seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or a significant change in bowel habits are all red flags.
The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne advises parents to take any signs of appendicitis in children seriously and to visit their GP or the nearest emergency department right away.