Overview
Appendicitis is swelling and infection in the appendix, a small pouch attached to your bowel. It usually starts suddenly and gets worse over hours. Without quick treatment, the appendix can burst and cause a serious infection inside the abdomen.
How common is it?
Appendicitis is common. It can happen at any age, but it is seen most often in older children, teenagers, and young adults.
Causes and risk factors
Appendicitis usually happens when the appendix becomes blocked, often by hard poo or swelling linked to an infection. The blockage leads to inflammation, rising pressure, and infection.
Common risk factors
- Being aged 10 to 30
- A blockage in the appendix from hard poo or swelling
- A family history of appendicitis
- Having symptoms that are harder to recognise, such as during pregnancy or in older age
Symptoms
- Pain that often starts around the belly button and then moves to the lower right side of the tummy
- Pain that gets worse when you move, cough, or press on the area
- Feeling or being sick
- Loss of appetite
- A high temperature
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Needing to pee more often than usual
- Sudden confusion in some older adults
When to see a doctor
Get urgent medical help today if you or your child have tummy pain that is getting worse, especially if it moves to the lower right side. Call 999 or go to A&E now for severe tummy pain, or if there are signs of sepsis such as confusion, difficulty breathing, or very pale or blotchy skin.
Diagnosis
Doctors usually examine your tummy and ask about how the pain started and changed. You may also need blood tests, a urine test, scans such as an ultrasound or CT scan, and sometimes a pregnancy test. There is not one single test that confirms every case.
Treatments
Surgery
Most people need an operation to remove the appendix. This is often done by keyhole surgery, but sometimes a larger cut is needed.
Antibiotics
Some people are treated with antibiotics first, especially if the infection has not spread or surgery is higher risk. You may still need surgery later.
Treatment for complications
If the appendix has burst or an abscess has formed, you may need antibiotics, drainage, and hospital care before or after surgery.
Self-care and lifestyle
- Do not try to manage severe or worsening tummy pain at home without medical advice
- After surgery, follow the hospital advice about wound care, activity, and pain relief
- Avoid heavy lifting until you have been told it is safe
- Get medical advice promptly if you develop wound redness, pus, fever, or worsening pain after treatment
Prevention
There is no reliable way to prevent appendicitis. A healthy diet can help bowel health overall, but it does not guarantee prevention.
Sources and review
Last reviewed: 29 July 2026 by Living Diabetes Editorial Team. This guide was checked against current patient and professional guidance. It is educational and does not replace care from your own healthcare team.