Does My Child Have Appendicitis?
Sunday, April 10th, 2022, 2:34 am
As a parent, it can be distressing for your child to experience pain. If your child complains of abdominal pain, in particular, you may wonder if they have appendicitis.
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix, which is a small pouch that’s connected to the large intestine, becomes inflamed. In most cases of appendicitis, the patient will require an appendectomy, which is a surgical procedure that involves removing the appendix.
Warning Signs of Appendicitis in Children
The main sign of appendicitis is a pain in the lower right portion of the abdomen. Frequently, the pain begins around the belly button, then travels down to the lower right area of the abdomen.
Pain from appendicitis is typically strong. However, it may fade in and out at first, potentially developing gradually over the course of a few days. But, the pain will later become constant and more severe. Additionally, your child may experience pain when pressure is placed on the abdomen.
Additionally, if your child has appendicitis, they may experience a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, bloated abdomen, and/or a low-grade fever. These additional symptoms are a good way to differentiate between appendicitis and other types of stomach pain.
Is It Appendicitis or a Stomach Ache?
If your child complains of stomach pain but continues to eat, laugh, and be active, it’s unlikely to be appendicitis. However, if your child appears to have become less active, isn’t eating, or is bent over from the pain, it’s important to seek out medical care ASAP.
Left untreated, appendicitis can lead to an appendix rupture, which is very dangerous. So, if your child is exhibiting signs of appendicitis, it’s better to be safe than sorry and see a doctor. Your child’s doctor can diagnose appendicitis by completing a physical exam, imaging, and testing.
The emergency medicine physicians and family practice physicians at Suncoast Urgent Care can help manage abdominal complaints and ensure that your child receives the care that they need to make a full recovery. Contact us today for more information.
Category: Suncoast Urgent Care in the Community