Appendicitis in Children
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and a common cause of severe tummy pain needing surgery in children. Prompt care prevents it bursting.
Causes & risk factors
- Blockage of the appendix leading to infection
- Often no specific trigger identified
- Can follow a gut infection
- Most common in older children and teenagers
Common symptoms
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- This usually needs surgery — assessment in hospital
- Removal of the appendix (appendicectomy), often by keyhole
- Antibiotics and fluids around the operation
- Selected mild cases may be treated with antibiotics first, as advised
- Most children recover well after surgery
When to see a doctor urgently
- Worsening lower-right tummy pain with fever or vomiting — seek urgent care
- A rigid, very tender tummy or sudden relief then worsening pain — emergency
- A child who is very unwell, drowsy or not drinking — urgent
- Any severe or persistent tummy pain in a child — get seen
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about appendicitis in children. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if it is appendicitis or a tummy bug?
Appendicitis pain typically starts around the navel and settles in the lower right, worsening over hours, with fever and loss of appetite. Any severe or worsening tummy pain in a child should be assessed urgently.
What happens if it is not treated?
An untreated appendix can burst, spreading infection in the abdomen, which is far more serious. That is why prompt assessment and surgery are important.
Explore more
MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.