Appendicitis is a common medical condition that affects millions of people around the world. This condition occurs when the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine, becomes inflamed and infected.
While acute appendicitis is a well-known ailment, there is also another form of the condition that is less understood – chronic appendicitis. In this article, we will explore what chronic appendicitis is and what you need to know about it.
What is chronic appendicitis?
Chronic appendicitis is a condition that involves slow and ongoing inflammation of the appendix.
Unlike acute appendicitis, which tends to happen suddenly and requires immediate medical attention, chronic appendicitis can develop slowly over time and its symptoms may be less severe, making it easy to misdiagnose or ignore altogether. The symptoms of chronic appendicitis can mimic those of other health problems, making a proper diagnosis difficult. This condition can be caused by inflammation, obstruction, trauma, or infection of the appendix.
What are the symptoms of chronic appendicitis?
The symptoms of chronic appendicitis can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:.
- Dull pain around the navel or the upper abdomen that may come and go
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Low-grade fever
- Recurring pain in the lower right side of the abdomen
- Foul-smelling breath
While these symptoms may sound like many other conditions, the recurring pain in the lower right side of the abdomen may be a sign of chronic appendicitis as it is a typical symptom.
How is chronic appendicitis diagnosed?
Diagnosing chronic appendicitis can be difficult as the symptoms mimic many other ailments. A doctor will often order imaging tests such as a CT scan, an ultrasound, or an MRI to look for signs of an inflamed or enlarged appendix.
These scans can help a doctor determine if the appendix is the source of abdominal pain and discomfort.
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Chronic Appendicitis: Symptoms and Diagnosis
How is chronic appendicitis treated?
The treatment for chronic appendicitis often involves surgery. Given that the painful symptoms are chronic, and getting worse over time, the best course of action is to remove the appendix in order to prevent any further complications.
Surgery for chronic appendicitis is not typically an emergency, so a surgeon can plan the operation and ensure the best possible outcome. In some circumstances, the doctor may recommend antibiotic treatment, but frequently, surgery will provide a more permanent resolution.
Are there any risks associated with chronic appendicitis surgery?
Although the surgery is minor compared to major surgeries like heart surgeries, it still bears its own set of risks. Risks of an appendectomy can include infection, bleeding, and damage to nearby structures such as the bladder or colon.
However, serious complications rarely occur, and the risk of complications decreases the younger you are. Generally, the younger you are when you have appendectomy the better it is. Your surgeon will explain the risks and benefits of the procedure and answer any questions you may have before the operation is performed.
Conclusion
Chronic appendicitis is a condition that can cause ongoing pain and discomfort for those who suffer from it. While the symptoms of chronic appendicitis may be less severe than those of acute appendicitis, they still require medical attention.
If you are experiencing ongoing abdominal pain, it’s essential to see your doctor to rule out chronic appendicitis. Diagnosing the condition can often involve imaging tests, and treatment typically involves surgery to remove the appendix.
While there are risks involved with the surgery, it is a generally safe and efficient procedure that can provide long-term relief from the symptoms of chronic appendicitis.
