It is possible to have appendicitis for years, although it is fairly rare. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, which is a small organ located in the lower right side of the abdomen. When the appendix becomes inflamed, it can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Typically, appendicitis is diagnosed within days of the onset of symptoms. However, in some cases, the inflammation can persist for a long period of time without causing any further symptoms. This is known as chronic appendicitis, and can last for months or even years. In some cases, the inflammation may never resolve, and the appendix will remain inflamed.
The risk of complications from chronic appendicitis is low, but it can still cause problems over time. The most common complication is obstruction of the appendix, which can lead to infections, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Appendicitis can also cause scarring of the surrounding organs, which can lead to abdominal pain and a feeling of fullness.
The best way to treat appendicitis is to surgically remove the appendix. If the appendix has been inflamed for an extended period of time, it is likely that the appendix has become infected. In this case, it is important to remove the appendix in order to prevent further infections and complications.
In summary, it is possible to have appendicitis for years. However, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of appendicitis. Early diagnosis and treatment of appendicitis can help prevent further complications and reduce the risk of infection.