Sharing the reasons why timing is important in appendicitis treatment

I thought I had gastroenteritis due to persistent abdominal pain and diarrhea. However, after a CT scan, I was diagnosed with acute appendicitis. I am sharing my experience of undergoing emergency surgery for appendicitis.

 

What is appendicitis?

 

It is commonly known as appendicitis, but the correct term is appendicitis. The appendix is a small pouch about 6 to 9 cm at the end of the large intestine, and when inflammation occurs in this area, treatment for appendicitis is necessary.

 

 

What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

 

One of the common symptoms we think of for appendicitis is pain in the right lower abdomen. Initially, it starts with mild abdominal pain, a dull and uncomfortable sensation in the upper stomach, along with symptoms like vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite. In fact, at this stage, there may be almost no abdominal pain, which is why it is often mistaken for indigestion. However, as time passes, the pain in the right abdomen gradually worsens, becoming more severe when coughing or walking, and a fever may develop. My own symptoms included occasional sensitivity of the intestines, frequent episodes of enteritis, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which I initially thought was just enteritis. There was no rebound tenderness, meaning pressing on the abdomen and then releasing did not cause increased pain. The hospital recommended a CT scan if the pain persisted, and since the abdominal pain continued over time, a CT scan was performed, leading to a diagnosis of appendicitis and a recommendation for treatment.

 

Why is the timing of appendicitis treatment important?

 

Appendicitis has a 70% chance of perforation after 48 hours from onset, which can lead to peritonitis or sepsis, making it very dangerous. Therefore, the timing of appendicitis treatment is very important, so please remember the initial symptoms well.

 

What is the treatment for appendicitis?

 

Treatment for appendicitis requires surgical intervention. An appendectomy is performed, followed by antibiotic treatment and fasting after surgery. In my case, I underwent emergency laparoscopic surgery on the same day I was diagnosed.

 

 

Remember the early symptoms of appendicitis well and receive proper treatment for appendicitis!