Appendicitis: What are its Causes and Symptoms?

Appendicitis refers to the swelling of the appendix and is considered a medical emergency. It typically necessitates prompt surgical intervention to excise the appendix. This article discusses appendicitis in detail, including its causes and symptoms.

Fremont, CA: Appendicitis refers to the inflammation of the appendix. It constitutes a medical emergency that typically necessitates prompt surgical intervention to excise the appendix. Fortunately, individuals can lead an everyday life without this organ.

There are two classifications of appendicitis:

Acute Appendicitis

This represents the most prevalent form of appendicitis. The symptoms typically onset abruptly and intensify rapidly within a matter of hours.

Chronic Appendicitis:

Chronic appendicitis refers to a condition in which the appendix is inflamed, yet it generally does not progress in severity. Although the symptoms are less intense, the discomfort may recur over weeks, months, or even years. Due to the limited understanding of chronic appendicitis among medical professionals, diagnosing this condition can be more challenging.

The Causes of Appendicitis

In the United States, approximately 1 in 20 individuals will experience appendicitis during their lifetime. While this disease can occur at any age, it is uncommon in children under the age of The highest incidence is observed among individuals aged 10 to 30, particularly those assigned male at birth. A family history of appendicitis may increase your likelihood of developing the condition; although it is not directly inherited, certain genetic factors may elevate your risk.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes obstructed, frequently due to fecal matter, a foreign object, or cancerous growths. Additionally, an infection can lead to blockage, as the appendix may enlarge in reaction to any infection present in the body.

Various factors may also lead to the development of appendicitis, including:

Appendix Stones:

Dried fecal matter can harden and form calcified masses that may become lodged in the appendix's orifice. These masses harbor bacteria and can also entrap additional bacteria within the appendix, increasing the likelihood of inflammation.

Lymphoid Hyperplasia:

The lymphatic system is an integral component of the immune system, responsible for fluid regulation, bacterial filtration, and the production of white blood cells. In instances of lymphoid hyperplasia, lymph nodes may increase cell production as a reaction to a viral infection. Additionally, the appendix, which contains lymphatic tissue, may exhibit swelling in response to this infection, even if it is not the primary source. Such swelling can result in an obstruction, potentially leading to further infection.