Appendicitis means the blockage of the appendix as a result of food remains, dry stool and bacterial infection in the tube. It can lead to severe pain which worsens over time. Untreated appendicitis can result in the rupturing of the appendix, allowing bacteria to spread internally and cause severe infection and even death. Important disclaimer: the information posted on this page is intended for educational purposes only. To learn to provide first aid or to be a first responder enrol in workplace approved first aid training.
Complications
The following are the complications that may result if the condition is not treated promptly:
- Bursting of the appendix
Once the appendix ruptures, the contents of the tube will spread across your intestines causing infectious bacteria to scatter on the abdominal lining leading to severe infection called peritonitis.
- Pus accumulation
Once the appendix ruptures, the contents of the tube are released leading to the formation of abscess. This is an infected bag around the appendix. The condition requires prompt treatment before the bag tears, resulting in a more prevalent infection in the abdominal region.
Diagnosis
Due to the changing and increasing pain, diagnosis of appendicitis becomes difficult at times. Moreover, there are many health conditions that result in abdominal pain—thus making it difficult to differentiate between other conditions and appendicitis. Therefore, it is ideal that you take note of the signs and symptoms that appear in you so that the doctor is able to detect the condition while examining your abdomen.
The following are the tests you will undergo if you are suffering from appendicitis:
- Physical examination to examine your pain
The doctor will apply a gentle pressure on the area that hurts the most to check for rebound tenderness. When the pressure is removed, the pain will get worse—if you are suffering from appendicitis. This indicates that your adjacent peritoneum is severely inflamed.
Other physical examination procedures include checking for abdominal rigidity. The abdominal muscles may stiffen while pressure is applied on the affected region.
- Blood test
A high white blood cell count will indicate signs of infection in the body.
- Urine test
This is to ensure that the pain is not caused due to kidney stones or infections in the urinary tract. In case of kidney stones, traces of red blood cells will be seen in the urine, under the microscope.
- Imaging tests
You may also go through X-rays, CT scans or ultrasound scans, to confirm the presence of an affected appendix.
Lifestyle changes after treatment
Treatment involves surgically removing the appendix, appendectomy. In case of a ruptures appendix, it may take longer for you to recover. However, during the recovery period, it is advisable to make some lifestyle changes to encourage a proper healing process:
- Avoid vigorous physical activity during the first 5 days after surgery, if surgery was done laparoscopically. In case of an open appendectomy, limit it to 10-14 days.
- Get plenty of rest and sleep whenever you feel fatigued. During the recovery period you may feel more lethargic and sleepier than usual. Therefore, ensure that your body gets plenty of rest to allow proper healing.
- Support your abdomen while making movements. You may feel pain while coughing, talking or laughing. Therefore, apply pressure on your abdomen before you make such movements.
- Start moving when you feel its time. Do not rush on to physical exercises. Start slowly with something mild like simple walking.
- If pain medications are not working, call your doctor immediately.
- Seek your doctor’s advice when you want to return to your normal lifestyle with increased activity and work.