The Warning Signs Of Appendicitis
The appendix is a worm-like tube that measures about half an inch in width and 4-6 inches in length. It is located at the beginning of the colon in the lower right quadrant at the base of the abdomen. Today we will talk a little about the warning signs of appendicitis.
The warning signs of appendicitis
For a long time it was thought that this organ was useless as its function was not known. It seemed strange that the human body had an organ that had no function but was so vulnerable to infections.
However, several studies have shown that it contains a form of immunological function, as it forms part of the lymphatic system, a network of lymph nodes with vessels that transport lymph around the body.
The cause of inflammation in the appendix is not known, but it may be due to blocked stools, foreign bodies or in rare cases a tumor.
What is most frightening to health experts is that many people are not aware of the warning signs of appendicitis, which leads to certain cases where the disease is only detected after it has reached a very serious stage.
It is very important to detect appendicitis in time. We would like to share the most important warning signs with you in this article.
Pain around the navel
One of the first symptoms experienced when the appendix is inflamed is a strong feeling of pain around the navel or in the area known as the “mouth of the stomach”, which is often confused with normal stomach pain.
The pain is likely to be intensified by coughing or light pressure.
To check for appendicitis, lightly press on the sore area with the index finger for two minutes. If it is appendicitis, it will hurt.
Goes forward bent
When appendicitis is acute, the person will usually have to walk forward and not be able to move properly. When trying to walk upright, the pain will intensify and warn you that something is wrong.
The majority of people who have appendicitis prefer to relax in bed to relieve the pain.
Other tests consist of jumping or coughing to see if the pain intensifies. In fact, this is the first thing doctors do to make a diagnosis.
Fever
Fever is the immune system’s response to various health problems and in this case, it should be seen as a warning sign.
A normal body temperature is between 35 and 37 degrees. An increase in body temperature along with other symptoms may be a signal that the appendix is inflamed.
Nausea and vomiting
As the infection increases, the body will show more symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
However, both symptoms can also be the result of other health problems, such as other gastrointestinal diseases.
Fecal changes
Pain while on the toilet? The late symptoms of appendicitis may include changes such as constipation and diarrhea due to inflammation of the digestive tract.
Lack of appetite
This symptom along with the other symptoms already mentioned may be a sign that something is wrong in the appendix.
In general, vulnerable people have difficulty eating normally and the change can be so sudden that it is obvious that it is not a stomach infection or virus.
What are the complications?
If one ignores these symptoms of appendicitis, the disease can develop to a more severe stage.
The worst complication is that an untreated inflammation can damage the organ and cause peritonitis, which can be fatal.
It can also lead to the proliferation of a fistula, abscess or infection.