Four Stages Of Appendicitis

Appendicitis refers to inflammation in the appendix, a small, tube-shaped organ located in the lower abdomen. Symptoms may include localised pain, swelling, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to consult a healthcare professional as soon as symptoms of appendicitis appear. Read on to learn about the four stages of appendicitis.

Stages of appendicitis

Acute appendicitis stages include:

1. Early inflammation

This is the initial or early stage of appendicitis. During this time, you may have mild abdominal pain, commonly around the navel. This is generally followed by a low-grade fever, nausea, and vomiting.

2. Suppurative appendicitis

At this stage, inflammation worsens due to the presence of pus in the appendix. This leads to abdominal swelling. Pain may now become more severe and localised to the lower right abdomen.

3. Gangrenous appendicitis

This is the third stage of appendicitis, where the appendix turns gangrenous. This is due to the loss of blood to the organ, causing tissue to die. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent the rupture of the appendix.

4. Perforated appendicitis

This is the last and most critical of the appendicitis stages. At this stage, the gangrenous appendix ruptures, releasing the infected contents into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to life-threatening complications like peritonitis and sepsis. Immediate care is required to prevent sepsis.

Conclusion

It is crucial to treat appendicitis at an early stage to prevent the spread of life-threatening conditions like sepsis. Understanding and recognising the symptoms and seeking immediate medical assistance can prevent further complications.

Appropriate health insurance can provide financial support for emergency treatments like appendicitis, covering hospitalisation, surgery, and post-operative care. Having the right insurance ensures that you can focus on recovery without worrying about inflated medical expenses.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.