Understanding Appendicitis: When to See a Doctor
What is Appendicitis?
A sudden pain in your abdomen might not seem like a big deal—until it becomes sharper, shifts to your right side, and won’t go away. If that sounds familiar, you could be facing appendicitis, one of the most common surgical emergencies. While the appendix might not serve a clear purpose, when it becomes inflamed, it can cause serious complications if not treated quickly.
At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, we’re here to help you recognize the warning signs and know when it’s time to act.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped organ attached to the large intestine. Though we still don’t fully understand its function, we do know this: when the appendix becomes blocked and infected, it quickly turns into a medical emergency.
The standard treatment is an appendectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the appendix before it ruptures. This can be done through open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, depending on your condition.
Common Symptoms of Appendicitis
Symptoms may vary from person to person, but the following signs are the most common—and most important to pay attention to:
1. Abdominal Pain That Shifts
The pain often starts around the belly button and gradually moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. It may get worse with movement, coughing, or deep breaths.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Digestive upset usually follows the onset of abdominal pain. Many patients report feeling nauseous or vomiting within hours of their symptoms starting.
3. Loss of Appetite
Sudden and noticeable loss of appetite is another frequent sign of appendicitis.
4. Low-Grade Fever
A mild fever is the body’s response to inflammation or infection. If you experience this along with abdominal pain, it’s a red flag.
5. Constipation or Diarrhea
While less common, changes in bowel habits may occur. Some patients also feel bloated or are unable to pass gas.
When to Seek Medical Care Immediately
Because appendicitis can escalate quickly, it’s important not to “wait and see.” Call your doctor or go to the ER right away if:
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Your abdominal pain worsens over a few hours
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The pain shifts to the lower right part of your abdomen
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You develop a fever along with stomach discomfort
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Nausea and vomiting won’t go away
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You feel pressure or tenderness that gets worse when you move
Delaying treatment can lead to rupture, which dramatically increases the risk of complications.
How Appendicitis Is Diagnosed
At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, we use a combination of diagnostic tools to confirm or rule out appendicitis, including:
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A detailed physical exam
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Blood tests to check for infection
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Imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan to visualize the appendix
Once diagnosed, surgery is typically performed the same day to avoid rupture and further complications.
Understanding Your Surgical Options
There are two primary types of appendectomy:
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Laparoscopic Appendectomy – A minimally invasive approach using small incisions, resulting in faster recovery and less post-op pain
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Open Appendectomy – May be necessary if the appendix has ruptured or if there’s widespread infection
Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your symptoms and medical history.
What Happens If Appendicitis Is Left Untreated?
If the appendix ruptures, it releases bacteria into the abdominal cavity—a condition known as peritonitis. This leads to widespread infection, longer hospital stays, and more complex treatment, often requiring IV antibiotics and drainage procedures in addition to surgery.
This is why early detection and treatment of appendicitis is critical.
Recovery After Appendectomy
Recovery depends on the type of surgery and your overall health, but here’s a general timeline:
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Laparoscopic surgery: Most patients go home the same day or the next, with a full recovery in 1–3 weeks
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Open surgery or ruptured appendix: Recovery may take 2–4 weeks or longer, especially if complications occurred
Most patients can return to normal activities gradually, with light walking encouraged within the first few days post-op.
Final Thoughts
Appendicitis is a condition that can escalate quickly—but with the right care at the right time, recovery is straightforward and long-lasting. If you’re experiencing symptoms that could point to appendicitis, don’t ignore them. Prompt treatment can prevent a simple condition from turning into a life-threatening emergency.
At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, we specialize in emergency surgical care, including minimally invasive appendectomy procedures. Our expert surgeons are here to provide fast, compassionate treatment when you need it most.
If you’re experiencing signs of appendicitis, call us or fill out a form online to get the care you need—right when you need it.