Key Pointers:
- Appendicitis often begins with vague stomach pain that quickly worsens.
- Common signs include nausea, fever, and pain that shifts to the lower right abdomen.
- Surgery (appendectomy) is the main treatment to prevent rupture.
- Ignoring symptoms can lead to dangerous complications.
- Seek medical attention early if you suspect appendicitis.
When a Simple Stomach Ache Isn’t So Simple
Most of us have had tummy aches before, maybe from eating too fast, trying new food, or dealing with indigestion. But sometimes, what feels like an ordinary stomachache can turn out to be something much more serious.
Appendicitis is one of those conditions that can strike without much warning. It happens when the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine, becomes inflamed and infected. The tricky part is that the pain often starts vaguely, then rapidly escalates.
How Appendicitis Pain Typically Starts
In many cases, the first sign is a dull discomfort around the belly button. Over a few hours, the pain shifts and settles in the lower right side of the abdomen. That’s often the red flag.
Along with abdominal pain, other common symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Low-grade fever
- Bloating or gas
- Pain that worsens with movement, coughing, or sneezing
It’s easy to brush these off as food poisoning or stomach flu, but appendicitis usually gets worse quickly instead of easing on its own.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency. The reason? If left untreated, the swollen appendix can burst (rupture). When that happens, bacteria and pus spill into the abdominal cavity, causing a serious infection called peritonitis.
A ruptured appendix doesn’t just mean more pain, it can be life-threatening and requires urgent treatment. That’s why doctors often advise not to “wait and see” once appendicitis is suspected.
What Happens During Appendix Surgery
The main treatment for appendicitis is surgery, known as an appendectomy. This procedure removes the infected appendix before it can rupture.
Depending on the situation, the surgery may be done in two main ways:
- Laparoscopic surgery – using small cuts and a camera to remove the appendix.
- Open surgery – a larger cut in the lower right abdomen, often used if the appendix has already ruptured or if there are complications.
Recovery time can vary, but many people are able to return to normal activities within a few weeks, especially if the appendix was removed before it burst.
Life After an Appendectomy
The good news is that once the appendix is removed, you can live normally without it. Most people do not experience long-term digestive issues after surgery.
Doctors may recommend avoiding strenuous activities for a short period, keeping surgical wounds clean, and watching out for any signs of infection. Eating light meals and staying hydrated can also help during recovery.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Because appendicitis symptoms can mimic other conditions, it’s always safer to get checked if:
- Abdominal pain is severe or persistent
- Pain moves from the belly button area to the lower right abdomen
- You have fever, nausea, or vomiting along with abdominal pain
Timely evaluation can make a big difference. Even if it turns out not to be appendicitis, ruling it out gives peace of mind.
Key Takeaways Recap
- Appendicitis pain often starts vague but quickly localises in the lower right abdomen.
- Symptoms like nausea, fever, and worsening pain are warning signs.
- Untreated appendicitis can lead to rupture, a serious complication.
- Appendectomy is the standard treatment to prevent further problems.
- Early medical attention is crucial if you suspect appendicitis.
Need Help With Abdominal Pain?
If you are experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain, it is important not to delay seeking medical attention. Early evaluation can help identify whether the cause is appendicitis or another digestive condition.
Reach out to LS Lee Surgery Clinic to arrange a consultation with Dr Lee Lip Seng and get clarity on your symptoms and treatment options.
