05/09/2024
😷*Acute appendicitis*😷
is an inflammation of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine. It is a common and urgent medical condition that typically requires surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy
🩸 *Symptoms of Acute Appendicitis* 🩸:
*Abdominal pain:
Usually starts around the umbilicus and then moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. The pain can be sudden, sharp, and worsen with movement, coughing, or deep breaths.
*Nausea and vomitingLoss of appetite
*Fever:
Usually mild, but can increase as the condition progresses.
*Constipation or diarrhea
*Abdominal bloating
*Inability to pass gas
🩸*Causes* :🩸
The exact cause of acute appendicitis isn't always clear, but it is often due to a blockage in the lining of the appendix. This blockage may result from:
*Hardened stool (fecalith)
*Enlarged lymphoid follicles
*Foreign bodies
*Tumors
🩸*Diagnosis* :🩸
*Physical examination:
Tenderness in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, especially at a point called McBurney's point.
*Blood tests:
To check for signs of infection (elevated white blood cells).
*Imaging tests:
Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to confirm inflammation and rule out other conditions.
🩸*Treatment* :🩸
Surgery (Appendectomy): The primary treatment for acute appendicitis is an appendectomy, which can be performed as an open surgery or laparoscopically.
Antibiotics:
Given before surgery to prevent or treat infection. In some cases, especially mild cases, antibiotics alone may be sufficient, although surgery is usually recommended.
🩸*Complications* 🩸
If untreated, acute appendicitis can lead to:
*Perforation (rupture) of the appendix:
Causing peritonitis (a serious abdominal infection).
*Abscess formation:
A localized pocket of pus.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.
If you suspect appendicitis, it's important to seek immediate medical attention.