This spreads bacteria throughout your abdomen.

A burst appendix can cause a painful, life-threatening infection.

Immediate surgery to remove the appendix and wash the abdominal cavity is necessary.

Patient with a ruptured appendix

Thitaree Mahawong / EyeEm / Getty Images

Thitaree Mahawong / EyeEm / Getty Images

What Causes an Appendix Rupture?

This is what causes the appendix to rupture or tear.

The contents then leak into the abdomen, which spreads the infection.

How Do You Know Your Appendix Burst?

The pain can also start there.

Pain usually worsens when moving, breathing deeply, coughing, or sneezing.

You may also feel pain when the area is lightly pressed.

This procedure is done while you are sedated.

You are then given antibiotics for a period of time before your appendectomy.

It’s important that you take all the medication as directed by your healthcare provider.

Can You Survive a Burst Appendix?

Most people survive a burst appendix, as long as they receive immediate emergency care.

There is also a risk ofsepsis, a life-threatening infection in the bloodstream.

Appendectomies, whether the appendix has burst or not, are generally considered emergency surgeries.

This leaks bacteria into the abdomen that can cause a life-threatening infection.

This is a medical emergency and surgical removal of the appendix is necessary.

Call your healthcare provider without delay.

National Health Service.Complications appendicitis.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms and causes of appendicitis.

doi:10.1093/bjsopen/zraa034

National Library of Medicine.Appendectomy.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Treatment for appendicitis.

National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Appendicitis.