5 Min Read
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix - a small finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine in the lower right abdomen. Although it may occur at any age, appendicitis is more common in kids and teens aged between 10 and 19 years. Thus, caution should be taken because it progresses rapidly, causing several health complications.
Appendicitis in children is very unpredictable, thus emphasizing the need for more awareness. As a parent, you must have a good understanding of the causes and symptoms of appendicitis so you can address them as early as possible.
An inflamed or infected appendix, especially in children, requires immediate medical attention. Delayed treatment may cause a rupture of the appendix. This gives room for bacteria to spread throughout the abdomen. Such a situation can cause serious infections like peritonitis and may also infect their bloodstream, leading to life-threatening conditions like sepsis.
Synopsis
Causes of Appendicitis in Kids and Teens
Some of the common appendicitis causes include:
1. Obstruction
The appendiceal lumen is the hollow space inside the appendix. When this lumen gets obstructed, it may result in appendicitis. This blockage may occur due to hardened stool, swollen lymph nodes, parasites, or, rarely, tumorous growths.
2. Infection
Viral or bacterial infections in the digestive tract and abdomen can cause inflammation of the appendix. If your kid has had a gastrointestinal infection previously, this condition may result from that. It can also result from the spread of infection from nearby organs.
3. Genetic Issues
Studies suggest that genetic predisposition may also cause appendicitis. If any of your family members have a history of appendicitis, then the risk of appendix is higher in your kid. So, keep the expert paediatric surgeon informed about your entire medical history.
4. Gastrointestinal Conditions
Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis may increase the likelihood of appendicitis in children and teens. Inflammation from these conditions may extend to the appendix.
5. Dietary Factors
If your kid consumes a diet low in fibre, they are at an increased risk of developing appendicitis. This diet contributes to the accumulation of faecal material (stool) that may block their appendix.
Recognizing these causes is vital for you as a parent. It will help you take measures for the factors in your control, like diet. Early awareness and regular monitoring of your child’s health will keep the health hazards at bay.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
-
Abdominal pain
-
Appetite loss
-
Vomiting
-
Painful urination
-
Feeling feverish
-
Diarrhoea
Even though these symptoms are not always indicative of appendicitis, you must always consult a doctor to monitor your child's condition so that any problem is detected at the earliest.
Appendicitis Treatment
Doctors opt for a combination of different medical aids to treat appendicitis in children and teenagers.
-
Surgical Intervention (Appendectomy)
Appendectomy is the primary and most common appendicitis treatment. This procedure removes the inflamed appendix, preventing rupture and the spread of infection. Advanced surgical techniques, like laparoscopic surgery, nowadays allow quicker recovery and lesser discomfort for young patients.
-
Antibiotic Therapy
If your kid’s pediatric surgeon in Bangalore feels that surgery is not feasible for your child, they might opt for antibiotic therapy. It can also be prescribed if the appendix is small and there is no risk of rupture in the near future. Antibiotics control the infection and inflammation. However, it is only a temporary solution.
Proper postoperative care ensures smooth recovery after an appendectomy. It includes pain management, good nutrition, and monitoring your child’s health for any complications. With appropriate care, most kids and teens recover fully and resume their normal activities.
Can You Prevent Appendicitis?
Appendicitis cannot be entirely prevented. However, certain lifestyle modifications can reduce the risk factors. These measures include:
-
Offering your kids a fibre-rich diet.
-
Training them to maintain good hygiene to prevent infections.
-
Addressing their abdominal and gastrointestinal issues.
-
Keeping them away from spicy and fried food.
-
Keeping your child hydrated, etc.
Appendicitis requires a tailored treatment approach. Consult the top paediatric surgeon at Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore if you suspect your kid of developing appendicitis.
FAQ's
No, usually appendicitis requires prompt medical intervention. Without treatment, your child may experience severe health complications.
Although appendicitis may occur at any age, it is more common in kids and teens aged between 10 and 19 years. The severity may vary depending on their age.
Antibiotics are typically prescribed to control infections temporarily. With time, surgical intervention will be necessary, as guided by a paediatric surgeon.
Share this article on:
