Appendicitis in kids should be treated as a medical emergency.
Knowing the signs to seek help as soon as possible is important.
The earlier appendicitis is diagnosed and treated, the better the recovery period.
d76 masahiro ikeda / Getty Images
This article describes the symptoms, causes, and treatment for appendicitis in kids.
d76 masahiro ikeda / Getty Images
How Serious Is Appendicitis in Kids?
Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency.A blockage in the appendix causes bacteria to grow, leading to an infection.
Appendicitis is not contagious.
When the appendix is infected, it begins to swell.
After 48 to 72 hours of infection, the appendix can burst, spreading bacteria throughout the body.
This is a severe complication.
Aburst appendixmay lead to a collection of pus (abscess) forming in the abdomen.
Appendicitis requires immediate treatment to avoid a burst appendix.
This condition is the most common cause of emergency abdominal surgery in children.
How Do I Know If My Child Has Appendicitis?
Recognizing the early signs of appendicitis can be challenging, especially in young children.
It is helpful to know what to look for.
Riding in the car may be uncomfortable too.
If your child suddenly describes the pain spreading across their stomach, they may have a ruptured appendix.
Infants and young children may experience different symptoms than older kids.
It may also be more challenging for them to communicate their feelings.
Young children are at higher risk of a burst appendix (perforation) than older kids.
Their symptoms may also be delayed.
Call your childs healthcare provider if you are concerned that they may have appendicitis.
Appendicitis is most common in school-age children and teenagers.
It tends to be more common in males than females.
When to Seek Care
It is important to seek medical care for appendicitis as soon as possible.
How Is Appendicitis in Children Diagnosed?
Appendicitis in children is diagnosed with a physical exam, medical history, blood tests, and imaging studies.
Your childs healthcare team will run tests to rule out other possible causes of their symptoms.
Other possible reasons could includekidney stones,pneumonia, UTI, gastroenteritis, or other infections.
Diagnostic tests to expect include:
A CT scan is considered the gold standard for diagnosing appendicitis in kids.
How to Check at Home
It is not possible to diagnose appendicitis without medical tests.
To determine if your child may be experiencing appendicitis at home, ask them to point to their pain.
If they point at their belly button or right lower abdomen, appendicitis is possible.
Other signs to look for include a mild fever and nausea.
As soon as you suspect appendicitis, seek medical care right away.
How is Appendicitis in Kids Treated?
As soon as your child is diagnosed, their healthcare team will starttreatment for appendicitisimmediately.
First, your child will receive an intravenous (IV) line for fluids andantibiotics.
Most children with appendicitis require surgery to remove the appendix (appendectomy).
An appendectomy is usually performed laparoscopically.
What Happens After Surgery?
Most children stay in the hospital for one day following an appendectomy.
Your child will still have an IV to receive antibiotics and fluids.
Your childs healthcare team will monitor their pain and prescribe medication as needed.
Most children recover from surgery quickly without any issues.
However, there are possible complications with any surgery.
Summary
Appendicitis in kids comes up whenever the appendix becomes infected or inflamed.
Appendicitis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Your healthcare team will perform blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging studies to diagnose this condition.
The treatment for appendicitis includes IV fluids and antibiotics, surgery, and pain medication.
American Academy of Pediatrics.Appendicitis in children and teens.
Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia.Appendicitis in children.
Nemours KidsHealth.Appendicitis (for parents).
2022;52(6):11. doi:10.1097/01.NURSE.0000829880.68035.16
