Appendix Pain: Location, Symptoms & When to Seek Immediate Care

The appendix is small outpouching located at the beginning of the large intestine. It is typically removed when inflamed, as a burst appendix can cause peritionitis, which is an inflammation of the peritoneum, a membrane that lines the abdominal wall and protects the organs beneath it.

If the appendix ruptures, it is a life-threatening situation and you should seek immediate medical assistance.

What are the early symptoms of appendicitis?

• The earliest symptom is an aching around your navel. It then spreads to your lower right abdomen. As the inflammation spreads, the pain becomes more severe and concentrates at a point halfway between your navel and the top of your right pelvic bone.

Are there other symptoms?

• Other symptoms include nausea, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, abdominal swelling, inability to pass gas and diarrhea.

When should I call a doctor?

• Call a doctor if you have persistent abdominal pain concentrated in the lower right quadrant of your abdomen.

What are the complications?

• Untreated appendicitis can result in a ruptured appendix. If the appendix ruptures, you might start vomiting, and you will have a pronounced fever due to the spreading infection.

What is the treatment?

• The only treatment for appendicitis is to have it removed in a procedure called an appendectomy.