Not everyone has all symptoms. It is important that people with symptoms of appendicitis not take laxatives or enemas to relieve constipation because these medicines could cause the appendix to burst. People also should not take pain medicine because it can mask symptoms that the doctor needs to know about. The doctor bases an appendicitis diagnosis on symptoms, a physical exam, blood tests to check for signs of infection such as a high white blood cell count, and urine tests to rule out a urinary tract infection. Some doctors use ultrasound to see whether the appendix looks inflamed.
Treatment is surgery to remove the appendix, called appendectomy.
Doctors are beginning to use laparoscopic surgery for appendectomy. This technique involves making several tiny cuts in the abdomen and inserting a miniature camera and surgical instruments. The surgeon then removes the appendix with the instruments, so there is no need to make a large incision in the abdomen. People can live a normal life without their appendix, however, changes in diet, exercise, or other lifestyle factors are necessary. Established in 1980, the clearinghouse provides information about digestive diseases to people with digestive disorders and to their families, health care professionals, and the public.