Appendicitis Can Present as Pain in Lower Right Side of the Abdomen

Extending from the large intestines, the appendix is a tube of tissue that measures about three and a half inches in length. The purpose of the structure is unknown. Each year many people have the tube removed without any noticeable repercussions.

Injury to the appendix occurs when the tube becomes blocked. This blockage could be a result of stool or foreign matter becoming trapped or as a result of cancer. Many times, an infection leading to swelling causes the condition.
Sometimes the signs of this irritation are minor right up until shortly before the appendix bursts. A perforated appendix is potentially fatal because infectious materials are released into the abdomen causing severe damage. If a tear does develop and material is released, the treatment will involve the use of antibiotics to combat the infectious entities.
Appendicitis can start as dull pain near the naval and progress to a sharp pain in lower right side of the abdomen. Others symptoms to watch for include loss of appetite, swelling in the area, fever, difficulty releasing gas and nausea and vomiting.
Other indications that appear in about half of all cases are dull pain that can be felt in the back and rectum as well as the abdomen. Severe cramps, difficulty urinating, constipation, diarrhea and gas are also warning signs.

These symptoms are similar to other ailments, so making a diagnosis can be tedious. Tests used to help reach a verdict are an abdominal exam, which can detect inflammation; a test to check for a urinary tract infection; rectal exam; CT scan; ultrasound and blood tests.

Because of the potential danger and the rate at which this condition can progress, if you feel you may be at risk you should seek medical aid without delay. Many times your pain in lower right side, nausea, fever and other symptoms may not be related to the appendix, but the precaution is warranted.