Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a finger-shaped pouch that sticks out from the colon on the lower right side of the belly, also called the abdomen.

Appendicitis causes pain in the lower right part of the belly. However, in most people, pain begins around the belly button and then moves. As inflammation worsens, appendicitis pain typically increases and eventually becomes serious.

Although anyone can develop appendicitis, most often it happens in people between the ages of 10 and 30. Treatment of appendicitis is usually antibiotics and, in most instances, surgery to remove the appendix.

Symptoms of appendicitis may include:

The site of the pain may vary, depending on age and the position of the appendix. In pregnancy, the pain may seem to come from the upper belly because the appendix is higher during pregnancy.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if you or your child has symptoms. Terrible belly pain requires immediate medical attention.

A blockage in the lining of the appendix, called the lumen, is the likely cause of appendicitis. This blockage can cause an infection. The bacteria then multiply quickly, causing the appendix to become inflamed, swollen and filled with pus. If not treated right away, the appendix may burst or break open.

Risk factors for appendicitis include:

Appendicitis may cause serious complications, such as:

To help diagnose appendicitis, a healthcare professional will likely take a history of symptoms and examine the abdomen.

Tests used to diagnose appendicitis include:

Appendicitis treatment usually involves surgery to remove the appendix. Before surgery, antibiotics to treat infection may be given.

Surgery to remove the appendix

Appendectomy is a surgery to remove the appendix. Appendectomy can be performed as open surgery using one abdominal cut about 2 to 4 inches long. This is called laparotomy. The surgery also can be done through a few small abdominal cuts. This is called laparoscopic surgery. During a laparoscopic appendectomy, the surgeon places special tools and a video camera into your abdomen to remove your appendix.

In general, laparoscopic surgery allows you to recover faster and heal with less pain and scarring. It may be better for older adults and people with obesity.

But laparoscopic surgery isn’t right for everyone. You may need an open appendectomy if your appendix has ruptured and infection has spread beyond the appendix, or you have an abscess. An open appendectomy allows your surgeon to clean the abdominal cavity.

Expect to spend 1 to 2 days in the hospital after your appendectomy.

Draining an abscess before appendix surgery

If your appendix has burst and an abscess has formed around it, the abscess may be drained. To drain it, a tube is placed through your skin into the abscess. Appendectomy can be performed several weeks later, after the infection is under control.

If your appendicitis isn’t serious and doesn’t require surgery, antibiotics may be used alone. However, if the appendix isn’t removed, there is a higher chance of appendicitis coming back.

Expect a few weeks of recovery from an appendectomy — or longer if your appendix burst. To help your body heal:

You will be prescribed medicines to help you control pain after your appendectomy. Other treatments, when used with your medicines, can help control pain. Ask your healthcare team about safe options, such as:

Make an appointment with a member of your healthcare team if you have abdominal pain. If you have appendicitis, you’ll likely be hospitalized and referred to a surgeon to remove your appendix.

What you can do

When you make the appointment, ask if there’s anything you need to do in advance, such as fasting before having a specific test. Make a list of:

Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you’re given.

For appendicitis, some basic questions to ask include:

Don’t hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

You are likely to be asked several questions, such as:

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