The appendix is a small sac located in your abdomen, where your small and large intestines connect. While it doesn’t necessarily have an important bodily function, it can cause serious health complications if it becomes inflamed. Below you will find the causes of a ruptured appendix and the common symptoms to look out for.
Causes of a Ruptured Appendix
A ruptured appendix is caused by appendicitis. Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. Appendicitis occurs when the opening of the appendix that transitions into the large intestine is blocked. The blockage leads to the buildup of bacteria which can cause a serious infection. The cause of the blockage can be due to a growth or tumor in the appendix, bacteria, viruses, parasites, stool buildup, or even a foreign object. Inflammatory bowel disease is also another possible cause of appendicitis. While the exact cause of appendicitis is not completely understood, there are a number of factors that can place you at a higher risk for the condition.
Risk Factors for Appendicitis
There are a number of factors that can increase your risk for appendicitis.
- Age: While people of all ages can get appendicitis, it is most common in children and young adults. In fact, those between 10 and 30 years old are at the highest risk for the condition.
- Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for appendicitis as it can cause changes in your abdominal cavity that can impact your appendix.
- Genetics: Similar to many medical conditions, a family history of appendicitis can increase your risk for the condition. Talk with your close family about their medical history to see how many people in your family have been impacted by the medical condition.
- Diet: People with unhealthy diets that are low in fiber and high in processed foods can be problematic for a variety of health reasons, including the risk for appendicitis.
- History of UTIs: Urinary tract infections (“UTIs’) increase your risk for the condition as they can cause inflammation in the pelvic area. This can easily spread to your appendix which can cause an infection that can lead to appendicitis.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Diagnosis: An inflammatory bowel disease (“IBD”) diagnosis can increase inflammation in your abdomen. This can weaken the walls of your appendix and potentially lead to an infection and appendicitis.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
Delaying treatment is the biggest risk factor when it comes to a ruptured appendix. Waiting to get medical attention can increase the risk of rupture. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact a medical professional right away.
- Abdominal pain that ultimately settles in your lower right abdomen
- Abdominal pain that increases when you move
- Tenderness when you put pressure on your abdomen
- An inability to pass gas
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Bloated or swollen abdomen
- Constipation or diarrhea
While these are common symptoms, many patients have unusual symptoms. It’s important to look out for anything out of the ordinary especially if it is a young child or older person that is not feeling well. In babies and young children, abdominal pain can impact their entire stomach. They often also experience a loss of appetite and a fever. However, older people often have pain that is less severe and don’t experience as much tenderness. The most important thing is to seek medical attention for an appendicitis specialist in Los Angeles right away.
Gastroenterologist in Los Angeles
If you experience any of the symptoms related to appendicitis, seek treatment from a gastroenterologist in Los Angeles right away. They can quickly diagnose your appendicitis and provide effective treatment to keep you in good health. Prompt treatment is necessary to avoid the serious health risks associated with the condition.
