Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the bowel. It causes tummy pain and usually needs urgent surgery.

DigestionEmergencyLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Pain that starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right tummy, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and fever.

Common Treatments

Surgery to remove the appendix, usually by keyhole surgery; antibiotics in some cases.

Risk Factors

Most common between ages 10 and 30, but can happen at any age.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Appendicitis happens when the appendix becomes blocked and infected. If untreated, it can burst and cause a serious infection in the tummy.

Any persistent tummy pain that's getting worse, especially on the lower right side, needs prompt medical assessment.

Symptoms

Tummy pain

Moves to the lower right side and gets worse.

Loss of appetite

With nausea or vomiting.

Fever

Usually mild.

Burst appendix

Severe pain across the tummy and high fever: emergency.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Blockage of the appendix (by stool, swelling or infection) leading to inflammation and infection.

Key Risk Factors

  • Age Teenagers and young adults.
  • Infection Gut infections can trigger swelling.
  • Not preventable There's no known way to prevent it.

Management & Treatment

01. Diagnosis

Examination, blood tests and an ultrasound or CT scan.

02. Surgery

Appendectomy, often laparoscopic.

03. Antibiotics

Before and after surgery, or alone in some mild cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take painkillers and wait?
Don't delay medical care. Painkillers can hide worsening symptoms.
Do I need my appendix?
No. People live normally without it.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.