Appendicitis is a condition brought on by an inflamed and infected appendix—a small pouch-like organ attached to the large intestine. The condition can affect people of all ages; however, it is common among those between 10 and 30. Appendicitis requires immediate treatment to prevent health complications, so one should keep an eye out for common symptoms. Although abdominal pain is the most typical sign of the ailment, it can also result in other symptoms.

Symptoms
Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is the first sign of appendicitis. It typically begins around the navel and spreads to the lower right side of the abdomen. Although the discomfort may be intermittent, it often grows greater and more persistent as the inflammation increases. Further, any movement, coughing, or sneezing may make the pain worse. For some, the pain can become so intense that they can find it difficult to walk or even stand up straight.

Vomiting and nausea: These symptoms might be mild or severe and can accompany or follow abdominal pain. Vomiting can briefly make the pain disappear, but it typically returns quickly.

Loss of appetite: This is another typical sign of appendicitis and is frequently brought on by nausea and abdominal pain, but it may also result from inflammation in the digestive system.

Low-grade fever: Another typical sign of appendicitis is a low-grade fever. The temperature of the fever, which can vary from 99°F to 101°F (37.2°C to 38.3°C), might also be accompanied by symptoms like nausea and stomach ache.

Diarrhea or constipation: The condition can also affect bowel movements by causing diarrhea or constipation. This is usually brought on by inflammation in the large intestine, which can impair regular digestion.

Abdominal swelling or tenderness: When the inflammation worsens, the appendix may expand, causing abdominal swelling or discomfort. An abdominal feeling of pressure or fullness could accompany the swelling.

Causes
Here are a few factors that can cause or increase the risk of appendicitis:

Blockages due to fecal matter: The most frequent cause of appendicitis is fecal matter blocking the appendix. This can happen when stool gets stuck in the appendix and forms a solid mass that prevents the appendix from opening.

Food blockage: When food penetrates the appendix, it can sometimes block the appendix and result in appendicitis. Here, a solid mass can prevent the appendix from opening.

Enlarged lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes can also trigger appendicitis. A blockage and consequent inflammation can develop when the lymph nodes near the appendix grow and press against it.

Inflammation: I nflammation and infection can result from bacteria that normally reside in the intestines migrating into the appendix and growing there. Many factors, including parasite-induced illness, food poisoning, or a viral infection, might lead to inflammation.

Hereditary or genetic factors: Research shows that those with a family history of appendicitis are more likely to be affected by it themselves. However, the exact hereditary variables that contribute to the onset of the condition are still unclear.

Treatment options
Doctors might recommend the following options to treat appendicitis:

Appendectomy: This is the primary course of treatment. Here, the surgeon removes the inflamed appendix to stop the inflamed appendix from rupturing and spreading infection. A laparoscopic method or an open incision might be used to perform the surgery.

Prescription treatment: Doctors may suggest prescription treatment before or after the surgery to prevent or treat an infection. This is particularly important if the appendix has already ruptured and the infection has to be stopped from spreading. People who cannot have surgery, such as those with existing health conditions or those who are pregnant, may also be given prescription treatment to reduce the risk of infection. Further, doctors may prescribe pain-relieving options.

Observation: If one only experiences mild symptoms that do not worsen over time, they may be monitored in the hospital without surgery. This is frequently done for those who are not healthy enough for surgery or who are dealing with less severe cases of appendicitis.

Management of fluid and electrolytes: Those with vomiting and diarrhea may get dehydrated and need IV fluids to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy electrolyte balance. So, this is usually an important part of treatment.

Appendicitis is a condition that needs prompt treatment and care, as, if neglected, it can result in complications like sepsis, abdominal infection, and abscess. So, if one notices one or more signs of the condition, they should consult a doctor immediately. Although the precise cause is unknown, the condition usually develops when the appendix is obstructed in any way. One can reduce the risk of appendicitis by taking precautions like following a healthy meal plan, staying hydrated, and exercising frequently.