Appendicitis is an acute inflammation, often linked to an obstruction within the appendix lumen, and can progress rapidly once inflammation begins. When the appendix lumen becomes blocked by fecaliths or tumors, secretions cannot drain, increasing internal pressure. Bacteria normally present in the digestive tract can proliferate, triggering an inflammatory response in the appendix wall, which reduces blood flow to the organ.

Master of Science, Doctor, Level 1 Specialist Dinh Van Thai, from the Center for Endoscopy and Endoscopic Digestive Surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, states that appendicitis does not have an incubation period like infectious diseases. The progression rate varies for each individual, depending on the location of the obstruction, the severity of inflammation, overall health, and other factors.

Appendicitis symptoms can appear relatively suddenly and change as the inflammation progresses. Not everyone experiences the full range of symptoms or in the same order.

In the early stage, patients typically experience abdominal pain around the navel or in the epigastric region, which can be dull and difficult to pinpoint. Later, as the inflammation irritates the peritoneum, the pain tends to shift and localize in the lower right abdomen. This is a characteristic symptom, but it does not always occur.

Patients may experience loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, a low-grade fever, or digestive disturbances such as loose stools. Some cases only involve abdominal pain, without fever or vomiting.

Doctor Thai (near the screen) performs laparoscopic appendectomy for a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

As the inflammation progresses, the pain becomes more distinct and continuous, potentially intensifying with movement, coughing, or position changes. During examination, doctors may note tenderness upon abdominal palpation, guarding, or signs of peritoneal irritation. Blood tests are ordered when necessary to check white blood cell count and inflammatory markers.

According to Doctor Thai, untreated appendicitis can progress to severe inflammation, ischemia, necrosis, and appendiceal perforation. In such cases, the infection can localize into a periappendiceal abscess or spread throughout the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis, septic shock, and other severe complications.

When experiencing suspicious symptoms such as progressively worsening abdominal pain, localized pain in the lower right abdomen, accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting, patients should seek medical attention for examination, symptom evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Appendicitis treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the specific circumstances. Appendectomy is the chosen treatment method for many cases of acute appendicitis or peritonitis resulting from a ruptured appendix, with laparoscopic surgery being commonly employed. If appendicitis has progressed to form an abscess, doctors may adjust the treatment protocol accordingly.

Thao Nhi