Appendicitis is a condition that occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine. When it becomes blocked, bacteria can grow and cause infection.
Although it can affect people of all ages, appendicitis is most common in children ages 5-15. Knowing the signs and symptoms of appendicitis in kids is important for early detection and proper treatment.
Pain in the Abdomen
The most common symptom of appendicitis in kids is severe pain in the abdomen. The pain typically starts in the area around the belly button and moves to the lower right side of the abdomen over time.
The pain may be constant or intermittent and can be triggered by movement, coughing, or sneezing.
Nausea and Vomiting
Along with abdominal pain, children with appendicitis may experience nausea and vomiting. This can be caused by the inflammation in the appendix, which can irritate the stomach and lead to feelings of nausea.
Fever and Chills
Fever and chills are common symptoms of appendicitis in kids. The fever may be low-grade or high, depending on the severity of the infection.
Children with appendicitis may also experience chills, which occur when the body tries to raise its temperature to fight off the infection.
Bloating and Gas
Bloating and gas can also be signs of appendicitis in children. The bloating is caused by the inflammation in the appendix, which can lead to a buildup of gas and pressure in the abdomen.
Children may also experience changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.
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Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is another common symptom of appendicitis in kids. Children may feel too sick or uncomfortable to eat, or they may experience nausea and vomiting when they try to eat. This can lead to weight loss and a decrease in energy levels.
Tenderness in the Lower Right Abdomen
When a doctor suspects appendicitis, they will perform a physical exam to check for tenderness in the lower right abdomen. This is the area where the appendix is located and where the pain is typically felt.
The doctor may gently press on the abdomen to check for pain and tenderness.
Guarding and Rebound Tenderness
Guarding and rebound tenderness are two signs that the inflammation in the appendix has progressed. Guarding is when the child tenses their abdominal muscles to protect the inflamed appendix from further injury.
Rebound tenderness is when the child experiences pain when the pressure is released after the doctor presses on their abdomen.
Rapid Heart Rate
Children with appendicitis may experience a rapid heart rate, which is the body’s response to infection and inflammation. The heart may beat faster to try to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the inflamed tissue.
Low White Blood Cell Count
When a child has appendicitis, their white blood cell count may be lower than normal. This is because the body is working hard to fight off the infection in the appendix. A low white blood cell count can help confirm a diagnosis of appendicitis.
Medical Attention Required
If you suspect that your child has appendicitis, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Appendicitis can be a serious condition that requires prompt treatment.
If left untreated, the appendix can burst, which can lead to a life-threatening infection.
