Have you ever suddenly experienced severe abdominal pain that moves to the lower right side? It could be a symptom of appendicitis. This condition, medically known as appendicitis, is common and often requires prompt treatment.
Understanding what causes appendicitis is important so we can stay alert and seek medical help immediately if symptoms appear. Do not underestimate abdominal pain—it could be a sign that you are experiencing appendicitis.
The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine, located in the lower right side of the abdomen. Its exact function in the human body is still debated.
However, when this small pouch becomes inflamed, it causes severe pain. This condition is known as appendicitis.
Inflammation occurs when the channel inside the appendix becomes blocked. This blockage allows bacteria to multiply rapidly, causing the appendix to swell, fill with pus, and potentially rupture if not treated promptly.
If the appendix ruptures, the infection can spread throughout the abdominal cavity (peritonitis), which is a dangerous medical emergency.
Many people wonder why appendicitis can occur suddenly. Basically, the main cause is blockage of the appendix lumen (cavity). Here are the most common triggers:
This is the most frequent cause. Because the appendix connects to the large intestine, hardened stool (feces) or foreign objects such as fruit seeds or undigested food particles can enter and block the appendix opening.
This hardened stool buildup (called a fecalith) obstructs normal flow and triggers bacterial infection.
The channel connecting the appendix to the large intestine can also become blocked due to swelling of the intestinal wall itself. This swelling is usually caused by an ongoing digestive tract infection.
When there is infection in the large intestine, nearby lymph nodes around the appendix may enlarge as part of the body’s immune response. These enlarged lymph nodes can compress and close the appendix channel, trapping bacteria inside and causing inflammation.
Some medical conditions, although rare, can also cause appendicitis. For example, tumors—both benign and malignant—in the large intestine or appendix can obstruct normal flow.
In addition, certain parasitic infections may block the appendix cavity and trigger appendicitis. Therefore, appendicitis can be caused by various factors within your digestive system.
If you or a family member experiences symptoms suggestive of appendicitis—such as abdominal pain starting around the navel and moving to the lower right side, nausea, vomiting, or fever—do not delay seeking medical help.
Early diagnosis and treatment are very important to prevent serious complications. We strongly recommend consulting an experienced digestive surgeon.
A digestive surgery specialist has the expertise to make an accurate diagnosis and determine whether surgery is needed, which is often the only definitive solution for inflamed appendicitis.
We are proud to have a team of top digestive surgery specialists. For fast and minimally painful appendicitis treatment, you can visit National Hospital in Surabaya. With modern equipment and professional medical staff, we are ready to provide the best care for your digestive health.
info@national-hospital.com
628131000517
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