Have you been experiencing a persistent pain in your lower right abdomen that just won’t go away? Does it get worse after eating, make you feel nauseated, or even keep you up at night?
Most people tend to dismiss abdominal discomfort as gas, indigestion, or a minor issue. However, what if it’s not?
That sharp, worsening pain might be more than just a digestive hiccup. It could be a warning sign of acute appendicitis. If ignored, it can lead to severe abdominal infections.
In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know about appendicitis.
What are the risks of Appendicitis Infection?
When appendix becomes inflamed, it swells with pus and infected material. If the inflammation is not treated on time, the appendix can rupture. It then spills its infected contents into the surrounding abdominal area. This is where things get dangerous.
One of the most serious risks is Peritonitis. This is a potentially fatal infection of the abdominal lining. It can cause the organs to shut down rapidly, requiring immediate surgery.
Another risk is the formation of an Abscess. This is like a pocket of infection that can spread to other organs or the bloodstream, leading to sepsis.
Delayed treatment also increases the risk of longer hospital stays. along with longer stays, intensive recovery, and even complications during surgery. For some, it can even lead to bowel obstruction and long-term digestive problems.
Ignoring appendicitis or attempting home remedies is risky. Get yourself checked immediately if you experience persistent abdominal pain on the right side.
Quick diagnosis and surgical intervention prevent complications, ensuring a safer recovery.
How does Appendicitis cause abdominal infections?
The appendix is a small pouch located at the junction of the small and large intestines. When it gets blocked (usually by stool, mucus, or infection), it becomes inflamed and infected. This sets the stage for serious trouble.
As pressure builds inside the inflamed appendix, blood flow is cut off. Bacteria multiply rapidly, causing the tissue to die. Eventually, the appendix can burst, leaking harmful bacteria into the abdominal cavity.
Such infections require urgent surgical interventions. Without treatment, they can cause organ failure, septic shock, or even death. That’s why it’s so critical to treat appendicitis early, before the infection spreads.
Which patients are at highest risk of Appendicitis?
Appendicitis can affect anyone, but some groups are more likely to develop it. The highest risk is seen in:
- People aged 10–30: This age group accounts for most appendicitis cases.
- Males: Men have a slightly higher risk than women.
- Family history: If a close family member had appendicitis, your chances increase.
- People with digestive issues: Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s can increase the risk.
- Low-fibre diet: Constipation and slow bowel movements can lead to blockages.
- Weakened immune systems: Diabetic patients or anyone on immune-suppressing medications are more vulnerable.
Additionally, children and older adults face unique risks. In kids, symptoms may be harder to detect until it’s too late. In elderly patients, the symptoms may be vague, leading to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
For high-risk individuals, even minor abdominal pain should not be taken lightly. Consulting a top appendicitis doctor early can make all the difference.
What are the complications of Acute Appendicitis?
When not treated on time, acute appendicitis triggers a chain of serious complications. The most common and dangerous ones include:
- Ruptured appendix
This is the biggest risk. Once the appendix bursts, infected materials spread throughout the abdomen. This leads to peritonitis or abscesses.
- Peritonitis:
Inflammation of the abdominal lining. It causes severe pain, fever, and potentially leading to septic shock if untreated.
- Sepsis:
A life-threatening condition where the infection spreads into the bloodstream, affecting multiple organs.
- Abscess formation
The body’s attempt to contain the infection can lead to pus-filled sacs around the appendix, requiring drainage.
- Intestinal blockage
Swelling or scar tissue after appendicitis can obstruct the intestines. It leads to nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
These complications increase hospitalisation time. They require more intensive treatments and pose greater health risks. Early treatment significantly lowers the chances of these issues occurring.
What bad habits cause Appendicitis?
Appendicitis isn’t directly caused by bad habits alone. However, some lifestyle choices can increase your risk by contributing to the factors that lead to inflammation.
- Low fibre intake
It leads to slow digestion and increases the chances of stool hardening and blocking the appendix.
- Lack of hydration:
Dehydration leads to harder stools, increasing pressure on the digestive tract and appendix.
- Poor hygiene:
In rare cases, infections from parasites or viruses can lead to appendix inflammation.
- Sedentary lifestyle:
Lack of physical movement slows down digestion and can contribute to bowel issues.
- Ignoring early signs of abdominal pain:
Delaying medical help allows inflammation to worsen and complications to arise.
Not every case of appendicitis is preventable. However, by adopting healthy habits you can reduce your risk.
How long can Appendicitis last?
Appendicitis typically progresses rapidly. Once symptoms start, the inflammation worsens within 24 to 72 hours. That’s why it’s considered a medical emergency. Delaying treatment increases the risk of rupture and infection.
In the early phase, symptoms include mild pain, nausea, and discomfort near the belly button. However, as it progresses, pain shifts to the lower right abdomen and becomes more severe.
If the appendix ruptures, symptoms you might notice include-
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
This stage requires emergency surgery and hospitalisation.
In rare cases, some people may experience chronic or recurrent appendicitis. During this, the inflammation comes and goes. Although less common, it still requires a medical evaluation to prevent complications.
So, how long can it last? Without treatment, it progresses from discomfort to a full-blown emergency in a matter of hours to a couple of days. Quick diagnosis is important to avoid surgery and complications.
What is the most common treatment for Appendicitis?
The most effective and standard treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix. It is also called an Appendectomy.
This is done using laparoscopic surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves small incisions and fewer complications.
Laparoscopic appendectomy is the preferred method used by the best appendicitis treatment doctor. It allows patients to recover within a week, with minimal scarring and reduced hospital stay.
For more severe ruptured appendix, open surgery becomes necessary. This is because the infection needs to be cleaned along with organ removal.
Appendicitis surgery expert
Dr. Ranajoy Dutta, a leading laparoscopic surgeon in Kolkata, brings unmatched experience in managing acute appendicitis.
He is known for his precision, patient-centric approach, and successful outcomes. Dr. Dutta ensures each case is handled with care, urgency, and clarity.
With advanced facilities, skilled hands, and personalised follow-ups, you are truly cared for.
Don’t wait for things to worsen
Appendicitis starts as a mild abdominal ache but can be life-threatening if ignored. When you understand its risk and take early action, you get treated on time.
Whether you are dealing with sudden pain or want a second opinion, always prioritise expert evaluation. Don’t take abdominal pain lightly.
Need fast and reliable care?
Book a consultation with Dr. Ranajoy Dutta, the best appendicitis treatment in Kolkata.