When it's not treated, it can be very serious. A completely obstructed appendix becomes more and more inflamed and eventually bursts, casting out its infected contents. The entire lining of the abdominal cavity may become contaminated, causing a life-threatening condition called peritonitis. Symptoms are usually vague at first, but an early one may be dull, continuous pain in the area around the navel. Appendicitis can be hard to diagnose because symptoms often resemble those of bladder infection, kidney stones, inflammation of the colon or stomach, or ovarian cysts.
Physical examination is usually the first step.
By pressing on the right lower part of the abdomen, the doctor may be able to feel a hardened appendix. Rectal and pelvic examinations often are done to rule out other problems. Usually, a blood sample is tested for a high white blood cell count indicating infection, and a urine sample is tested for urinary tract infection, which can be confused with appendicitis. An x-ray film may be taken to look for an obstruction, or a thin, lighted telescope called a laparoscope may be inserted into the abdomen to examine the area. If you think a youngster may have appendicitis, keep a record of his or her temperature, taken every 2 hours.