Appendicitis, from symptoms to causes, here are the facts

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix vermicularis, and is the most common cause of acute abdomen in children and adults. Acute appendicitis is the most common surgical emergency in children and adolescents. The incidence of appendicitis in Indonesia according to data released by the Indonesian Ministry of Health in 2009 was 596,132 people with a percentage of 3.36% and increased in 2010 to 621,435 people with a percentage of 3.53%. Appendicitis is the second highest non-communicable disease in Indonesia in hospitalization in 2009 and 2010.

Causes of Appendicitis

Appendicitis is caused by a blockage in the appendix cavity, resulting in accumulation, tissue death and infection as a result. Appendicitis usually occurs due to a bacterial infection. The most common cause of obstruction is a fecolith (hard stool). Fecoliths are found in about 20% of children with appendicitis.

Signs and symptoms

The diagnosis of appendicitis is established through history taking, physical examination, and supporting examinations (blood laboratory, ultrasound, appendicogram, or abdominal CT scan).

Appendicitis can affect all age groups. Pain is the first symptom to appear. Often felt as a dull, periumbilical pain that is vague, but over time will be located in the lower right abdomen. Decreased appetite, nausea, and vomiting usually occur within hours of the onset of pain. Diarrhea can occur as a result of secondary infection and irritation of the intestines. In uncomplicated appendicitis there is usually a low-grade fever (37.5 -38.5 0 C). If the body temperature is above 38.6 0 C, it indicates a rupture in the appendix.

Appendicitis Treatment

The main treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix, or appendectomy. Removal of the appendix in the digestive system will not cause any long-term problems, as the appendix does not play an important role in adults either. There are two ways to perform an appendectomy, namely through laparoscopy or keyhole surgery, and open surgery or laparotomy. Both surgical techniques are initiated by performing general anesthesia on the patient. Here is the explanation:

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopic appendectomy is performed by making several keyhole-sized incisions in the abdomen. Through the incision, the doctor will insert a special surgical instrument to remove the appendix.

Laparotomy

Laparotomy is performed by dissecting the lower right abdomen along the 5-10 cm, and removing the appendix. Open surgery is recommended for appendicitis where the infection has spread beyond the appendix, or if the appendix is ​​festering (abscess).

Friends of Hermina, if you experience the above symptoms, don't take it lightly, immediately consult a doctor for proper treatment.