Appendicitis – the contradicting symptoms

Harmless abdominal pain or a dangerous irritation of the appendix? Especially in children, the symptoms are difficult to distinguish from one another. Do it nine to fourteen year olds the largest proportion among those suffering from irritation of the so-called worm process on the appendix. How to recognize appendicitis and when an immediate visit to the doctor is necessary, should clarify this article.

Appendicitis signs

The first signs are usually abdominal cramps or abdominal pain.

Even if there is no clear or typical course of the disease and the disease can occur in all age groups, there are serious information for appendicitis symptoms.

The first signs of irritation are Abdominal pain or abdominal cramps, that make themselves felt in different intensities. They can start with side stitches and then get worse, but in the meantime they can also become weaker or even disappear entirely. This inconsistency is what makes appendicitis irritating, because it is often dismissed as abdominal pain and is only taken into account when it is correct inflammation has come. In contrast to digestive problems, abdominal pain with appendicitis is usually so severe that the patient complains of pain even with light touches on the abdomen and hardly wants to move. Typically, they lie down curved to avoid further pain in this gentle posture.

The pain usually begins in the navel region.

The pain often begins in the Region around the navel around and shift into the right lower abdomen. If fever, chills, an increased pulse or nausea and vomiting are added, these are further indications of irritation of the appendix. With a little one pressure test can be checked whether the affected person has a pain of letting go. To do this, pressure is applied to the painful point on the abdomen with the fingers and then released abruptly. While the pressure on the area provides relief, releasing it causes severe pain. The affected person can also be asked to bounce on the right leg – if the pain in the movement increases, it is most likely an irritation of the appendix.

Appendicitis what to do?

Since, as already mentioned, the course of the disease can vary, especially in children and adolescents, and appendicitis is difficult to distinguish from real appendicitis, the following applies: In case of doubt, go to the doctor or to the hospital! The symptoms of harmless irritation and inflammation of the appendix are usually the same. However, the latter is an acute emergency, who needs immediate treatment and surgery. Otherwise, a life-threatening breakthrough of the appendix can occur. Appendicitis is often preceded by appendicitis, so it is necessary to consult a doctor in good time and clarify further treatment options. If the pain is so severe that the affected person can no longer sit, a lying transport to the hospital is necessary. Under no circumstances should you be afraid to seek emergency medical help – because quick action can save lives in this case. Pain relievers or laxatives should also not be taken on your own, but only in consultation with a doctor.

Appendicitis and its causes

The appendix is actually a relic from ancient times and is no longer needed today. As long as nothing gets in his way, he hurts blind appendix not further on the intestine. But since the appendix consists of countless follicles exists and these are very susceptible to pathogens, it can easily ignite. There is also a risk that Foreign bodies from food, e.g. Fruit kernels penetrate and cause infection. Worm infestation or a kinking of the worm process are also triggers, even if they are less common. Therefore, if the appendix is irritated, the cause should always be clarified in order to avoid further complications.

Treatment and prospects for healing

If it is an acute inflammation of the appendix, the affected person comes to one emergency surgery not around. An ultrasound examination and a blood sample clarify whether there is inflammation or irritation. In the former case, the appendix must be surgically removed – a routine intervention nowadays and keyhole technology (the surgery is performed through a small hole in the abdominal wall) can prevent larger scars. After that, absolute bed rest and a few weeks of protection are the order of the day before the person concerned can go back to normal life.
If it is "only" an irritation of the appendix, can also with the Administration of antibiotics help to stop inflammation. In this case, too, care and increased attention are required, because the irritation can lead to inflammation at any time.

The conclusion: It is difficult to distinguish appendicitis from inflammation. For symptoms that indicate one of these diseases, it is therefore – especially in children: Better to go to the doctor too much than risk life-threatening complications.

The appendix explained in the video

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