Inflammation Of The Appendix In Children

Appendicitis is an inflammation of a small organ called the appendix, a lean tube that is about 9 cm long and protrudes from the large intestine. Science has so far not found the exact function of the organ, but apparently it works against intestinal infections. Moms and dads should know what inflammation in the appendix means as it can affect their baby from birth.

For this reason, we ask ourselves: What is the cause behind inflammation in the appendix?

The obstruction of the appendix causes the accumulation of feces (feces) that damage the organ wall, which later causes inflammation and infections.

When this occurs, the swelling continues to grow and the pain is usually concentrated in the lower right part of the abdomen. There, the pain is concentrated in an area called the McBurney point. This is a point that doctors use as a reference in diagnosis.

In some cases, the child may feel a little better after a moment of sharp pain. This is not a good sign as it may mean the onset of peritonitis, which is an inflammation of the peritoneum.

Symptoms of inflammation of the appendix in children

Doctors do not usually diagnose appendicitis immediately, but it can happen after performing a series of tests. With young children, it is important that we follow this protocol as  inflammation of the appendix can be confused with other intestinal changes that are less serious (eg gastroenteritis) or colds.

Here are the main symptoms of inflammation in the appendix in children to watch out for:

• The first symptom is usually mild pain in the upper abdomen or around the navel. It is followed by fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea and constipation.
• As the hours go by, the pain begins to intensify and moves to the lower abdomen.
• When children experience these symptoms, they are of course not willing to perform activities that they otherwise appreciate, such as. to run, play or eat. If you notice that your child is still playful, you may feel a little more relaxed.

If you notice these signs mentioned above, you should inform your pediatrician and follow their instructions. In case your child has extreme pain, you should go to the nearest hospital immediately.

Risk factors

Acute appendicitis is the leading cause of abdominal surgery in children over 2 years of age. Although it can happen at any age, children younger than 2 years have a risk of about 5% to be affected by this, while boys between 10 and 12 years are most affected.

In this context, it is worth asking: What factors affect the incidence of appendicitis in children? These are the risk factors:

• Genetics: the risk increases if the mother or father has had this problem before
• Infections
• Indigestion: A diet that consists of too little fiber is risky for your body
• Stomach injuries

Treatment of appendicitis

Unfortunately, after being diagnosed with appendicitis, the only solution is to remove the appendix through a surgical procedure. The good news is that science has advanced a lot in recent years and that it is now a very simple operation. Children also recover much faster than adults.

There is no need to worry. Keep track of your little angel’s health and always have the phone number of your trusted doctor close at hand.