Appendicitis
Symptoms of inflamed appendix that may require immediate care.

What is appendicitis?

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and is often extremely painful. It’s most commonly seen in people from ages 10 to 30. It does require immediate care and can result in surgery which removes the appendix. If this isn’t treated quickly, the appendix can rupture and cause severe infection – which can be life threatening.


With appendicitis, the primary symptom is severe abdominal pain that comes on suddenly. Other characteristics of appendicitis pain include:

  • Being primarily located near the belly button and shifting a bit lower and to the right
  • Consistently getting worse over time
  • Being easily exacerbated by movements or something as simple as a deep breath or cough

Pain is not always the only appendicitis symptom that may be present. Other indications that the pain may be appendix related can be:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Low-grade fever
  • Abdominal swelling or bloating

Symptoms can vary from person to person, and abdominal pain can often mirror other illnesses, such as constipation, inflammatory bowel disease and other abdominal issues. If you believe that you or a family member or child is dealing with appendicitis, go as soon as possible to an emergency department to have a medical evaluation performed by a qualified provider.


This list is not inclusive of all possible medical emergencies. If you have recently had abdominal or weight loss surgery, are pregnant and are experiencing any of the symptoms above, or are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Sources:
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/appendicitis/symptoms-causes
https://medlineplus.gov/appendicitis.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/appendicitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369543

Emergency Room in Gulf Shores


South Baldwin Regional Medical Center
Freestanding Emergency Department

3590 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542


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South Baldwin Regional
Medical Center

1613 N. McKenzie Street
Foley, AL 36535


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Dizziness

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Appendicitis

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