Appendicitis involves inflammation of the appendix due to a blockage. Even though the appendix is a small organ, it can cause significant issues if it becomes infected.
The blockage might be brought about by infection, hardened stool or inflammation in the lymph nodes in the intestines.
Even though appendicitis is the main cause of stomach surgery among children, it can be a serious ailment. Once the appendix ruptures, bacteria are released into the abdominal cavity that can cause severe infection.
What are the indications?
Appendicitis typically starts as pain around the bellybutton of the child. The symptoms that might arise include:
- Elevated heart rate
- Diminished appetite
- Frequent urination that can be accompanied by pain
- Low grade fever
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain especially in the lower right abdomen
Many children with appendicitis are between the ages of 8-16. Nevertheless, children below 5 can be affected as well. They often end up with serious effects since they could not talk about their symptoms. The child might have evident pain while moving, sneezing, coughing or touching the abdomen.
When to consult a doctor
If a child is suspected with appendicitis, it is vital to consult a doctor right away. If a child has the condition and not diagnosed in 48 hours, the chances of the organ to rupture is high.
Seek immediate attention if the child suffers symptoms such as stomach pain that progresses to vomiting, fever and poor appetite.
Management
The treatment for appendicitis necessitates surgical removal of the appendix. In case the appendix has not ruptured, antibiotics are given and the appendix is removed.
On the other hand, if the appendix has ruptured, removal is required along with irrigation of the peritoneal cavity. This is a bigger surgery to ensure that the bacteria present within the appendix will not move to other parts of the abdomen and cause a serious infection.
When it comes to a ruptured appendix, the child should stay in the hospital longer to be given intravenous antibiotics due to the high risk for infection.