Why Does Appendicitis Happen? Explained by a Surgeon

Dr. Suprashant Kulkarni, General, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Surgeon at Lokmanya Group of Hospitals, explains that the appendix is a small organ. It is located at the junction between the small and large intestine. The appendix is usually just about one-fourth the size of a finger and has a hollow cavity inside. Though small, problems arise when this cavity gets blocked or infected.

Causes of Inflammation in the Appendix

The appendix can become inflamed due to several factors. Changes in weather, poor eating habits, or foreign particles like seeds and worms can cause irritation. Similar to tonsils, the appendix has cells that react to such triggers and cause swelling. This swelling can further block the cavity inside the appendix, leading to complications.

How Does the Appendix Get Blocked?

Once the cavity is blocked, fluid begins to accumulate inside the appendix. This is comparable to stagnant water in a bathroom that starts to rot. If the appendix is blocked by worms or hard particles, or if swelling shuts the opening, the fluid and bacteria start building up inside. This leads to internal infection and pressure buildup.

What Happens When Pressure Builds Inside?

As pressure increases, the appendix begins to swell. The fluid inside turns into pus, which can leak into the abdominal cavity. This infected pus can spread germs throughout the body. When this happens, the patient can experience severe health complications, including a life-threatening condition known as sepsis.

Serious Risks Associated with Appendicitis

If the appendix bursts and the infection spreads, it can have critical effects on the body. Dr. Kulkarni warns that this situation can become fatal if not treated in time. One of the key dangers is the spreading of infection across the entire abdominal area, resulting in systemic infection or septicemia.

Common Triggers and Medical Terminology

Appendicitis due to external or environmental causes is called "Catarrhal Appendicitis." Another type is "Obstructive Appendicitis," which occurs when the appendix gets blocked. The most common cause for blockage is small hard particles from stools. These blockages are particularly risky and require urgent attention.

Can Tumors Also Affect the Appendix?

Yes, in rare cases, tumors can also develop in the appendix. Some of these tumors may even be cancerous. If such growths are present, they carry serious implications and may need further investigation or advanced medical intervention.

FAQs

1.Where is the appendix located?
The appendix is situated between the small intestine and large intestine.
2. What causes appendicitis?
Causes include dietary changes, foreign particles, infections, or blockages inside the appendix.
3. Can appendicitis be life-threatening?
Yes, if left untreated, it can lead to sepsis and may become life-threatening.
4. What are the signs of a blocked appendix?
Accumulated fluid, pressure, swelling, and severe abdominal pain.
5. What is Catarrhal Appendicitis?
It’s inflammation due to environmental or food-related changes.
6. Can worms cause appendicitis?
Yes, worms or stool particles can block the appendix and lead to infection.
7.  Are tumors in the appendix dangerous?
Yes, some tumors may be cancerous and require serious medical attention.