Appendix Surgeon Explains What Causes Appendicitis

What Is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. It's a medical emergency that nearly always needs surgery as soon as possible to extract the appendix. Luckily, you can live just okay without it, says the best appendix surgeon in Kolkata.

 

 

Where Is Your Appendix?

It is an approximately 3 1/2-inch-long tube of tissue that extends from the right side of your body from the large intestine. The appendix has tissue that can produce antibodies, but no one is entirely sure about its function.

What Causes Appendicitis?

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix gets blocked, often by poop, a foreign body, or cancer. Blockage can also result from the infection since the appendix can swell in reaction to an infection in the body, says the best appendix surgeon in Kolkata.

What Are the Symptoms of Appendicitis?

The signs of appendicitis include:

• Pain in the lower right belly or near the navel that moves lower

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea and vomiting soon after belly pain starts

• Swollen belly

• Can't pass gas

Other less typical symptoms of appendicitis include:

• Dull or sharp pain in the upper or lower belly, back, or rear end

• Painful or difficult peeing

• Vomiting before belly pain starts

• Severe cramps

• Constipation or diarrhea with gas

If you have these signs, consult a doctor immediately. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for this condition.

How Is Appendicitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing appendicitis can be tricky. Symptoms are often unclear or similar to other illnesses, including gallbladder issues, bladder or urinary tract infection, Crohn's disease, gastritis, intestinal infection, kidney stones and ovary issues, says the best appendix surgeon in Kolkata.

The tests that can help diagnose appendicitis are:

• Examination of the abdomen to look for inflammation

• Urine test to rule out a urinary tract infection

• Rectal exam

• Blood test to see whether the body is fighting an infection

• CT scans

• Ultrasound

There’s no known way to prevent appendicitis. But it is less common in people who eat foods high in fibre, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, says the best appendix surgeon in Kolkata.