Appendicitis

The appendix is the small part of the large intestine. It’s a part of the body that does not have any use that we know about and it looks a bit like a worm! About six in 100 people get appendicitis. Appendicitis is the most common cause of stomach ache needing emergency surgery.

What causes appendicitis and who can get it?

Appendicitis is when the appendix becomes swollen. If you don’t have treatment it may burst, which can be very serious. No one knows why appendicitis happens. It could be caused by bacteria from the intestine or by a blockage at the top of the appendix. The blockage means that germs cannot get out so the area gets swollen. Children and young adults between 8 and 25 are more likely to get appendicitis, but it can happen at any age.

What are the signs and symptoms of appendicitis?

The most common sign is stomach pain right in the middle by your tummy button. This pain may come in waves and will gradually get worse, especially on the lower right-hand side. You might start to feel sick and even be sick (vomit). You’ll probably want to urinate a lot and may have a fever (a high temperature). Moving and coughing will hurt and this may make you want to lie still, and you probably won’t have much of an appetite.

How is it normally diagnosed and treated?

An ultrasound scan is often used to help diagnose appendicitis, but there is no actual test. A doctor will look at your symptoms to make a decision. You will have your temperature taken and the doctor will feel your stomach. You might be given a blood or urine test to check it’s not anything else.

If you have appendicitis you will usually have to have your appendix taken out (appendectomy). Some people are just given antibiotics, but most people have an appendectomy. This will be done under a general anaesthetic so you’ll be asleep for the operation. Once you’ve woken up you will be given more painkillers and some antibiotics.

When to ask for medical help

If you are in a lot of pain and think you might have appendicitis, get a parent to call the doctor, and don’t have anything to eat or drink.

Looking forward

You will probably stay in hospital for two or three days. It will be a few weeks before you feel back to normal and can do all your usual activities.

For more help and information

If you would like to know more about appendicitis, please ask your doctor.

Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: 1 August 2006

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