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Appendicitis
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch off the large bowel. It causes tummy pain that classically moves to the lower right, and usually needs surgery.
Causes & risk factors
- Blockage of the appendix by hardened stool
- Swollen lymph tissue after an infection
- Rarely, a growth blocking the opening
- The exact trigger is often unknown
Common symptoms
- Pain starting near the navel, then moving to the lower right
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
- Pain worse on movement, coughing or pressing the area
- Constipation or diarrhoea
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical examination of the tummy
- CBC (raised white cells)
- CRP
- Ultrasound or CT of the abdomen
- Urine test to exclude other causes
Treatment & management
- Surgery to remove the appendix (appendicectomy), often keyhole
- Antibiotics before and, in some cases, instead of surgery
- Pain relief and fluids
- Urgent treatment to prevent the appendix bursting
- Drainage first if an abscess has formed
When to see a doctor urgently
- Worsening lower right tummy pain — seek urgent care
- Pain with fever and vomiting
- A suddenly severe, rigid, very tender tummy (possible burst appendix)
- Being unable to pass wind or stool with a swollen tummy
Frequently asked questions
Can appendicitis be treated without surgery?
Some mild, uncomplicated cases can be treated with antibiotics, but surgery remains the standard, especially as symptoms can return. A surgeon decides based on the individual case.
What happens if appendicitis is not treated?
The appendix can burst, spreading infection through the tummy (peritonitis), which is serious. That is why worsening lower right tummy pain needs urgent assessment.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. 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.