The appendix is a finger-like pouch located in your abdomen, on the lower right side. It is an extension of your colon. Appendicitis is when your appendix is inflamed; it causes a plethora of symptoms which includes pain, nausea, bloating and low-grade fever. The symptoms can worsen as the inflammation increases. Appendicitis can occur in almost anyone but most commonly occurs in people aged between 10-30.

What Causes Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is most commonly caused due to a blockage of the lumen (hollow space) in the appendix. Such blockages can be caused by:

• Inflammation,
• Bacteria,
• Viruses,
• Hardened fecal matter,
• Parasites,
• Appendicular tumours

The inflammation caused can lead to the bursting of the appendix. This in turn leads to the spread of the infection and causes inflammation in the lining of your abdomen – a life-threatening condition known as ‘peritonitis’.

What are some of the symptoms of appendicitis?

• A sudden pain (usually begins on the lower right side of the abdomen),
• A sudden pain (begins around the navel, shifts to your lower right abdomen),
• Worsening pain during coughing, walking or during jarring movements,
• Nausea and vomiting,
• Loss of appetite,
• Low-grade fever that may worsen,
• Constipation or diarrhea,
• Abdominal bloating and 
• Flatulence

The symptoms of appendicitis, fortunately, occur in the first 24 hours. It can mimic other conditions so it is important to get medical care immediately. Some of the symptoms can mimic :

• Crohn’s disease,
• Ulcerative colitis,
• Gallbladder problems,
• Urinary tract infections,
• Pelvic inflammatory disease,
• Stomach problems and
• Intestinal blockages

If you feel any symptoms that are mentioned above, consider visiting your doctor immediately and get yourself checked out.