Appendicitis, which is an extension of about a finger’s length on the right side of our body, slightly above the groin, can occur at any age, but is usually seen between the ages of 10 and 30. Appendicitis cases are more common in men than in women. In women, the appendix is located in the lower right part of the abdomen and is a small sac that varies in size between 9 and 35 cm in adults. The risk of appendicitis in women usually varies between 6% and 9%. This common but serious health problem is usually a condition that requires emergency intervention. Since appendicitis is a problem that requires fast and effective treatment, early diagnosis and intervention are of great importance.
What are the symptoms of appendicitis in women?
Symptoms of appendicitis in women are as follows:
- Severe pain characterized by a stabbing sensation when pressure is applied to the lower right abdomen; this pain increases over time.
- Vomiting accompanied by nausea
- Loss of appetite, dryness of tongue and mouth
- High fever
- Pain in and around the belly
- Constipation, diarrhea or digestive difficulties
- Rapid heartbeat
- Straining to pass stool, pain, and difficulty passing gas
In pregnant women, appendicitis pain is usually felt in the back and side areas of the abdomen. Symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite and nausea can help diagnose appendicitis.
Where does appendicitis pain hit in women?
Appendicitis pain can often be confused with gas pain or menstrual cramps. However, appendicitis pain is usually more intense and severe in nature and creates a constant discomfort that lasts for several days. This pain is of a distinctly continuous and intense nature when compared to other conditions.
Appendicitis test can be done at home. To evaluate appendicitis pain at home, you can try to rise on your toes when you have abdominal pain. If your pain gets worse in this position, it may be a symptom of appendicitis. In addition, pain-like pain in the abdominal area can increase when pressure is applied to the right abdomen with a finger. Symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, high fever and loss of appetite can also strengthen the possibility of appendicitis.
How is appendicitis treated?
The main method of appendicitis treatment is surgery. In appendicitis surgery, the appendix is completely removed. This procedure can be performed by open or closed methods, that is, laparoscopically. Today, the laparoscopic method, which is usually done with small incisions of 5-10 mm, is preferred; open surgery is performed only in special cases or complications.