by Casey Clay

Created on: June 05, 2008   Last Updated: June 09, 2008

For those suffering from appendicitis you have my sympathy. I know from personal experience how difficult and painful this can be. Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix - a portion of the digestive tract. This inflammation is usually caused by blockage of the appendix, a bacterial infection of the organ, or both. There are two different kinds of appendicitis: acute and chronic.

Acute appendicitis is more common. The symptoms of this type of appendicitis are easily recognized because they are more intense. However, many of the symptoms of appendicitis are similar to other types of illnesses. This makes appendicitis difficult to diagnose. Symptoms are often compared to a bad case of influenza.

The symptoms of acute appendicitis include:
-abdominal pain (near the belly button in early stages, in the lower right in advanced stages)
-nausea
-vomiting
-diarrhea
-fever
-lower abdominal sensitivity to touch
-abdominal swelling
-loss of appetite
-constipation

The symptoms of chronic appendicitis are more problematic. While some of the symptoms of chronic appendicitis are similar to those of acute appendicitis, their intensity is much weaker. This can cause serious problems because the cause of appendicitis (infection), if left untreated, can spread.

The symptoms of chronic appendicitis include:
-mild abdominal discomfort in the lower abdomen
-discomfort may subside and recur
-slight fever
-mild tenderness

The symptoms of chronic appendicitis can be very difficult to diagnose. Many people suffering from this type of appendicitis believe the source is other causes. Individuals must consult a physician to recieve a definitive diagnosis.

For a diagnosis of either of these types of appendicitis it is imperative to contact your general practice physician immediately. For some suffering of acute appendicitis it may be beneficial to go directly to a hospital emergency room. When diagnosing acute appendicitis the physician will perform a physical exam and may have blood or urine samples tested.

For chronic appendicitis the physician will have to perform a blood test and perform an extensive physical examination. The physician may also need to examine the abdomen with a device such as ultrasound to make a definitive diagnosis. The diagnosis of chronic appendicitis is a much more difficult and lengthy process. If you think you may have either of these types it is important to consult your physician.

If you are diagnosed with a case of acute appendicitis, you will most likely have to have your appendix removed. This process is known as an appendectomy. An incision is made in the lower right-hand portion of the abdomen and the appendix is removed. In more severe cases antibiotics may be prescribed as well. For chronic appendicitis, a rigorous round of antibiotics is usually prescribed and the appendix is usually not removed. In some cases, however, chronic appendicitis treatment calls for the removal of the organ. Rest, relaxation, and pain-killers are the usual steps involved in the recovery process following surgery.

If you are looking for information about this disease there are many resources available to you. On-line articles or books are a good starting point. However, your most valuable resource is always your physician. In cases of your health and well-being your best resource is always your personal physician.

Learn more about this author, Casey Clay.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.