Appendicitis is one of the most common yet potentially life-threatening abdominal conditions seen today, affecting people of all age groups. The condition develops when the appendix becomes inflamed, and if not treated in time, it may rupture, leading to serious complications and even risk to life. Medically, appendicitis is classified into three main types: acute appendicitis, marked by sudden and severe pain; chronic appendicitis, which causes mild but persistent discomfort over a long period; and recurrent appendicitis, where pain occurs repeatedly. The disease also progresses through different stages—catarrhal, suppurative, gangrenous, and perforated—of which the perforated stage is considered the most dangerous.
Common causes of appendicitis include blockage of the appendix due to stool accumulation, bacterial infection, swelling of lymph nodes, or intestinal obstruction. In the early phase, pain is usually felt around the navel and gradually shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen. Other associated symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, loss of appetite, and worsening pain while walking or moving. Unfortunately, many people dismiss these signs as simple gas or routine stomach pain, which can later result in severe complications.
According to Dr. Rajan Punj, General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Dr. Punj’s Artemis Hospital (a unit of EMC Hospitals), timely and accurate diagnosis of appendicitis is crucial. With the help of modern diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, CT scan, and blood tests, the condition can be identified with precision. In terms of treatment, laparoscopic appendectomy is now considered the safest and most effective option. This minimally invasive procedure involves removing the appendix through small incisions, resulting in less pain, reduced risk of infection, and faster recovery, allowing patients to return to their normal lives quickly.
Dr. Punj emphasizes that early treatment of appendicitis can completely prevent complications. Delay in medical intervention may cause the appendix to rupture, leading to severe abdominal infection and prolonged hospitalization. At Dr. Punj’s Artemis Hospital, a team of experienced doctors, state-of-the-art operation theatres, and advanced laparoscopic techniques ensure successful and safe treatment of appendicitis. The hospital is committed to providing patients with secure, swift, and effective care, helping them move toward a pain-free life.
The message is clear—never take abdominal pain lightly. Timely medical evaluation and expert consultation are essential, because treatment at the right time is the key to protecting life.
About the Author
