What is appendicitis?
Appendicitis is a swelling of the appendix. The appendix is a small, tube-like structure attached to the front of the colon, located just below the right side of your child’s belly button.
Signs and symptoms of appendicitis
A person with appendicitis may exhibit the following symptoms.
Pain around the belly button or below the right hand side of the abdomen, which can be relieved by gentle pressure on this location, deep breathing or movement.
Loss of appetite.
Nausea.
Vomiting.
Fever.
If the appendix is distended, the child will feel a constant sharp pain throughout the abdomen.
Etiology
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix begins to block, and the appendix can become infected. Appendiceal obstruction and infection can make the appendix swell and cause pain. There is also the possibility of perforation of the appendix with septicemia.
Risk factors
Appendicitis affects not only children, but also adults. appendicitis is rarely seen in children under 2 years of age. Appendicitis is most common in adolescents and young adults.
Complications
If the swollen and infected appendix is left untreated, the appendix can become septic and gangrenous or perforate, which can lead to fatal peritonitis.
When to seek medical help
If your child develops severe abdominal pain or a continuing, unexplained fever or intolerance, then you should take your child to a doctor. If you suspect that your child’s appendix has burst, take your child to the nearest emergency department.
How doctors treat children with appendicitis
The doctor will examine your child. If appendicitis is suspected, the child will need to be hospitalized. The doctor or nurse will give the child intravenous (IV) fluids, perform a urine test, blood test, ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the diagnosis. The child will then need surgery to remove the appendix. This surgery is called an appendectomy. It is a common and simple surgery.
What you can do to help a child with appendicitis
Have your child describe the pain he or she is experiencing and contact your doctor or take your child to the emergency room if you suspect an inflamed appendix.
Key points
Appendicitis is caused by an infection or blockage of the appendix.
Symptoms are usually pain around the belly button or under the right hand side of the abdomen.
If appendicitis is not treated immediately, it can lead to septicemia, gangrene or perforation of the appendix.
If you suspect that your child has an inflamed appendix, you should see a doctor.
Appendicitis is rarely seen in children under 2 years of age. If appendicitis is diagnosed, the child will have to have surgery to remove the appendix.