Symptoms and causes
Appendicitis causes abdominal pain, usually in the region of the bellybutton. The pain may also radiate to the lower right section of the abdomen. Additional signs and symptoms that indicate appendicitis include:
- Appetite loss
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Frequent urination
- Nausea
- Painful urination
- Vomiting
If the appendix bursts, it is likely that the individual will also have a high fever and severe pain in the abdominal area. Surgery is the most common treatment for appendicitis.
Recovery time
After surgery, recovery time varies depending on the severity of the infection and whether or not the appendix ruptured.
If the appendix did not rupture, a person may usually go home after 3 days in the hospital.
A person will need to stay for longer at the hospital if their appendix has ruptured. Here, they will receive powerful antibiotics and remain under observation for any signs of complications.
A Surgeon will talk to the individual about activity restrictions and expected recovery time. Activity restrictions will typically apply for up to 14 days after the appendectomy.
Most children can return to school within 1 week of the surgery if their appendix did not rupture and within 2 weeks if it did.