Appendicitis causes, symptoms, complications: Don't ignore that early morning pain near the belly button

Appendicitis causes and symptoms: Common symptoms of an attack of appendicitis include pain and vomiting. One of the earliest symptoms of this condition is early morning pain (Image: Canva)

Have you not been consuming enough fibre? Are you experiencing symptoms like severe pain in the abdomen on the lower right side, along with fever? If yes, then you may possibly have an attack of acute appendicitis.

The appendix is a finger-like projection present on the lower right side of the abdomen. It is considered to be a vestigial organ (meaning it has no known physiological function) but may prove to be life-threatening if infected.

The inflammation of the appendix is termed appendicitis. It is more commonly seen in males and those who consume a diet deficit in fibre. Epidemic appendicitis shows a seasonal variation, with an increase in cases during the months of May and August.

The pathophysiology usually involves an initial infection by a virus, followed by bacteria. The appendix can get obstructed by hardened lumps of faeces, foreign bodies and worms like threadworms or roundworms, which can also lead to appendicitis. In a few cases, colon tumours may also result in this condition. Incessant use of purgatives has been speculated as an underlying cause.

Common symptoms that may accompany an attack of appendicitis include pain and vomiting. One of the earliest symptoms of this condition is early morning pain. It may begin near the belly button and, after a few hours, may be experienced in the right lower abdomen due to inflammation. Pain may gradually worsen and become severe. It is often followed by vomiting. Persons with appendicitis present with constipation, but if the position of the appendix is pelvic, then they may complain of diarrhoea.

Fever, increased heart rate, bad oral breath, and bladder irritation may be observed, associated with abdominal bloating and gas.

While a healthcare professional is the best person to check whether you have appendicitis, a few signs may help you identify the condition yourself.

McBurney’s sign: McBurney’s point is present in the imaginary line joining your belly button and a bony landmark called the ASIS. The point is one-third of the distance from ASIS and is tender in the case of appendicitis.

Dunphy’s sign: On coughing, the pain worsens.

Blumberg’s sign: The sore area is pressed, and the pain is found to be worse when you release the pressure. This is known as rebound tenderness.

Acute appendicitis is considered a medical emergency. If left untreated, the complications may be as follows:

Ischemia: When the appendix becomes swollen, it may cut off the blood supply, which can progress to necrosis (death of the tissue).

Perforation: Necrosis may be followed by the spread of infection, which can cause the appendix to tear or burst, leading to perforation.

Abscess: An abscess is like a pus-pocket, which may be formed on the appendix if treatment is delayed. This may be painful and can even occur as a complication of the surgery. While some abscesses may be treated with antibiotics, others may need to be drained.

Peritonitis: If the appendix bursts, infective pathogens may be released into the adjacent parts. If the infection spreads to the peritoneum (the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity), it can lead to peritonitis. This may worsen the abdominal pain and can also present with fever.

If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible to prevent complications. Surgery is the most preferred treatment for appendicitis.