How to Treat Appendicitis
Your appendix is a finger- like projection located in the lower right quadrant of your abdomen. A swollen appendix is called Appendicitis. Here are some tips to treat appendicitis.
Causes:
Inflammation may be caused by an obstruction of waste, stones and other matters.
Appendicitis can also happen after an infection.
Symptoms:
The main symptom of appendicitis is pain. Here are the characteristics of pain that you should take note of if you suspect appendicitis.
Pain starts from the navel and to the lower right abdomen.
Pain becomes severe after a few hours.
There will also be rebound tenderness. You’ll feel pain as you apply and release pressure on the area.
Nausea and Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Low- grade fever
Diagnosis:
Your doctor will do a physical assessment on your abdominal area.
Blood test may also be required to check if there is an increase in the white blood cell count. An increase in WBC signals an infection.
Urine test will help determine that your pain isn’t caused by urinary tract infection or kidney stones.
An X-ray, Ultrasound or CT scan may be done to confirm and see the extent of appendicitis.
Treatment:
Surgery is commonly required to remove the inflamed organ. The following are 2 types of surgery to choose from.
Appendectomy is the removal of the appendix. The doctor will make one abdominal incision that is usually about 5 to 10 centimeters long.
Laparoscopic removal of the appendix is done by making several small incisions. The advantage of having this kind of procedure is that you’ll be able to get back to your normal activity faster than when having an appendectomy.
Home Care:
When experiencing pain, take note of the time and intensity of the pain. If it doesn’t subside after a few hours, consult your doctor immediately.
Avoid strenuous activities to let your body recover from surgery.
Support your abdomen when coughing or sneezing. Gently put your hands on your abdomen every time you cough.You may also use a pillow to support your abdomen.
Tip:
When you’re experiencing pain and you suspect appendicitis, avoid taking over the counter pain medications. You have to take note of the frequency and intensity of the pain. The sudden disappearance of pain may indicate that your appendix have ruptured.