Appendicitis — Symptoms, Diagnosis & Surgery Videos

Where is appendicitis pain felt?

Classically it starts as a vague ache around the navel, then moves over hours to the lower right side of the abdomen, where it becomes sharper and worse with movement, coughing or pressing and releasing the area. Not everyone follows the textbook pattern, especially children and pregnant women.

How is appendicitis diagnosed?

Doctors combine the story and examination with blood tests; imaging — ultrasound or CT — is often used to confirm it and to rule out other causes of pain. In women, pregnancy is also tested for, since some causes mimic appendicitis.

What happens if the appendix bursts?

A burst (perforated) appendix spills infection into the abdomen, causing peritonitis — severe, spreading pain and feeling very unwell. It is an emergency needing urgent surgery and antibiotics, which is why early assessment matters.

How is appendicitis treated?

The standard treatment is surgery to remove the appendix (appendicectomy), usually keyhole (laparoscopic), plus antibiotics. In selected uncomplicated cases, antibiotics alone are sometimes tried first, with surgery if things do not settle.