Appendicitis occurs when the appendix, a small finger like tube, that extends from the large intestine, becomes inflamed. The purpose of the appendix is not known. An infection or an obstruction in the digestive tract causes appendicitis. According to Harvard Medical Publications, Appendicitis affects approximately 1 in every 500 people each year.  

Symptoms of appendicitis include: a sudden pain in the right side of the lower abdomen that worsens with movement, nausea, vomiting, and possible swelling of the abdomen. Changes to bowel patterns and an inability to pass gas are also common symptoms of appendicitis.

If left untreated, the appendix could burst, spreading the infection throughout the abdominal wall. This in turn could lead to peritonitis, a severe inflammation of the abdominal cavity wall, that could potentially be fatal.

Although there is no cure for appendicitis, it can be easily treated with surgery. A procedure called an appendectomy, to remove the appendix, assuming it has yet to rupture, should ensure the patient makes a full recovery.  Should the appendix rupture, a hospital stay will be needed to ensure that the infection doesn’t spread throughout the body.

A combination penicillin antibiotic that is used to treat many different infections caused by bacteria, may be prescribed following the appendectomy.