The dangers of chronic appendicitis

Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
Updated on November 12, 2024
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Patients with chronic appendicitis primarily exhibit persistent, recurring pain in the lower right abdomen, which may be accompanied by abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, and indigestion. These prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms can lead to malnutrition and a weakened immune system. Additionally, chronic appendicitis can acutely flare up and become suppurative, which can lead to perforation of the appendix. Once the appendix perforates, it causes diffuse peritonitis, leading to sepsis, septic shock, and even multi-organ failure, endangering the patient's life. This outlines the dangers associated with chronic appendicitis.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Can appendicitis recur?

Acute appendicitis, if not treated surgically, can relapse under poor lifestyle and dietary habits and then transform into chronic appendicitis. Therefore, appendicitis can recur. However, if the appendix is removed during an acute episode of appendicitis, then appendicitis will not recur. Currently, the primary clinical treatment for appendicitis is surgery, because without surgery, the recurrence rate of appendicitis is quite high, and ultimately, the appendix must be removed.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
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Causes of Appendicitis

Appendicitis is caused by both anatomical factors of the body and lifestyle dietary patterns. The appendix is a tube that is open at one end and closed at the other, communicating with the cecum. Due to its narrow and long nature, it is easy for fecal matter to block the appendix, leading to increased pressure within the tube, mucosal ischemia necrosis, and subsequently triggering inflammation. Additionally, irregular eating habits, such as binge eating, habitual drinking, and consumption of spicy food, can provoke inflammation of the appendix. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, it is mostly treated surgically. The laparoscopic appendectomy is commonly used nowadays, which is a minimally invasive treatment that allows for a faster recovery and leaves smaller scars on the body surface.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Can appendicitis cause back pain?

Appendicitis located posterior to the peritoneum generally causes back pain, along with gastrointestinal irritation symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Appendicitis at the cecum location will cause pain in the lower right abdomen, with significant tenderness and rebound pain at McBurney's point. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, it is most often treated surgically. Currently, laparoscopic appendectomy is commonly used. This method involves less bleeding during surgery and a faster recovery thereafter. Postoperative care is important, including regular dressing changes of the surgical incision. The stitches can usually be removed about a week after surgery. Dietary adjustments are necessary after surgery, starting with a semi-liquid diet and gradually transitioning to a normal diet. At least two weeks of rest are recommended postoperatively.

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Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
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Causes of Appendicitis

The appendix is connected to the cecum at one end, has a narrow lumen, and is rich in lymphatic tissue. The anatomical basis of the appendix makes it prone to inflammation. Generally, appendicitis is caused by different obstructions in the appendix, such as fecaliths, fecal masses, food residues, and parasites like roundworms, which can all lead to obstruction of the appendix and trigger acute appendicitis. Additionally, gastrointestinal dysfunction can also cause spasms and contractions of the muscles in the appendix wall, affecting the emptying of the appendix and its blood circulation, leading to inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis requires timely treatment, and surgery might be necessary for symptomatic support.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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Should you avoid certain foods if you have chronic appendicitis?

The majority of chronic appendicitis is transformed from acute appendicitis after treatment. Clinically, it mainly manifests as recurrent pain and discomfort in the lower right abdomen. In cases of chronic appendicitis, it is important to pay attention to a reasonable diet, avoid overeating and the consumption of gastrointestinal irritants, including spicy foods and some hard, cold foods, as these can induce pain in the lower right abdomen. Additionally, the diet should be low in sodium, sugar, and fat. Consumable options may include liquid or semi-liquid foods, as well as foods like yogurt. It is also advisable to eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and anti-inflammatory substances, such as apples, bananas, cabbage, and cauliflower.