If you do not seek medical treatment for appendicitis, it can be life-threatening. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small organ located at the lower right side of the abdomen. Appendicitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting. If left untreated, the appendix can become infected and rupture, leading to a potentially fatal infection.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
The most common symptom of appendicitis is sharp pain in the lower right side of the abdomen. Other symptoms may include:
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Abdominal tenderness
• Abdominal swelling
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Inability to pass gas
Complications of Leaving Appendicitis Untreated
If you do not seek medical treatment for appendicitis, the infection can spread to other organs in the abdomen. If the infection is not contained, it can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to a severe infection. If the appendix ruptures, it can cause an abscess, a collection of pus, in the abdomen. This can lead to further infections and complications.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you experience any of the symptoms of appendicitis, you should seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam to check for tenderness in the abdomen and order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for appendicitis typically involves emergency surgery to remove the appendix. This surgery is known as an appendectomy. After the surgery, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection.