Appendix Pain: How to Identify It & Why Quick Surgery Is Important

Appendicitis is one of the most common abdominal emergencies. The problem is that its symptoms often start like normal stomach pain, and people ignore it until the pain becomes unbearable. Understanding appendix pain early can save you from a burst appendix, severe infection, and long recovery.

 

What Is the Appendix?

The appendix is a small finger-shaped pouch attached to the right side of your large intestine.

It does not have any major function, but it can get blocked due to:

Hard stool

Swelling inside the intestine

Infection

Worms in some cases

 When it gets blocked, it becomes swollen and infected — this condition is called appendicitis.

 

Early Symptoms of Appendicitis

Appendix pain usually starts slowly and increases over hours. Common early signs include:

Pain Around the Navel

Most people think appendix pain starts on the right side, but early pain typically begins near the belly button.

Pain Shifting to the Right Lower Abdomen

Within a few hours, the pain moves to the lower right side — the classic sign of appendicitis.

Loss of Appetite

Even favorite foods don’t feel appealing.

Nausea or Vomiting

This happens after the pain begins.

Mild Fever

Temperature may rise slightly (99°–100.5°F).

Pain Increases With Movement

Walking, coughing, or pressing the area increases pain.

Danger Signs: When You Should Go to the Hospital Immediately

Do not wait at home if you notice these:

Severe right-side abdominal pain

Pain that does not reduce over 4–6 hours

Repeated vomiting

High fever

Stomach becoming hard or bloated

Pain that becomes so bad you cannot stand straight

 If untreated, the appendix can burst (perforate). This is life-threatening and needs emergency surgery.

What Happens If the Appendix Bursts?

A burst appendix spreads pus/bacteria inside the abdomen. This leads to:

Severe infection (peritonitis)

High fever

Intense abdominal pain

Risk of abscess (pus pocket)

Longer recovery

More complicated surgery

This is why early treatment is extremely important.

How Is Appendicitis Diagnosed?

Doctors usually confirm it through:

Physical examination

Ultrasound or CT scan

 Blood tests showing infection

 

Treatment: Why Surgery Is the Best Option

Appendicitis does not get better on its own.

Once diagnosed, doctors recommend appendectomy— removal of the appendix.

Two Methods of Surgery

Laparoscopic Surgery (Keyhole)

 3 small cuts

Less pain

Faster recovery

Discharge usually next day

Open Surgery

Used when the appendix is already burst or complications are present.

Recovery After Appendix Surgery

 

Most people recover quickly:

Laparoscopic:

Can walk on same day

Soft diet in 24 hours

Normal routine in 5–7 days

Open Surgery:

Slightly longer healing

 

10–14 days to return to normal activities