Which part hurts with appendicitis?
Apr 10, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, appendicitis causes pain in areas such as McBurney's point, the right flank, the suprapubic region, the right upper abdomen, and the left lower abdomen. If pain occurs in these regions, prompt medical attention is recommended. Appendicitis may be caused by factors such as luminal obstruction and bacterial invasion. If diagnosed with this condition, timely medical treatment, typically via laparoscopic appendectomy, is advised.
Generally speaking, appendicitis may cause pain in areas such as McBurney's point, the right flank, the suprapubic region, the right upper abdomen, and the left lower abdomen. If pain occurs in any of these areas, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The details are as follows:
1. McBurney's point: Located at the outer one-third of the line connecting the umbilicus and the right anterior superior iliac spine. This is because the base of the appendix is typically situated in this area, and when the appendix becomes inflamed, significant tenderness and rebound tenderness often occur here.
2. Right flank: When the appendix is located posterior to the cecum, pain may appear in the right flank. This is because inflammation may irritate the posterior peritoneum, causing pain to radiate to the lower back.
3. Suprapubic region: When the appendix is located within the pelvic cavity, inflammation may stimulate pelvic nerves, leading to pain in the suprapubic area.
4. Right upper abdomen: During pregnancy, the growing uterus may push the appendix upward and to the right, so abdominal pain from appendicitis may manifest in the right upper quadrant.
5. Left lower abdomen: Abnormal positioning of the appendix or a rare condition called situs inversus (mirror-image anatomy) may result in appendicitis presenting with pain in the left lower abdomen.
Appendicitis may be caused by factors such as luminal obstruction and bacterial invasion. If diagnosed with this condition, timely medical treatment—typically laparoscopic appendectomy—is recommended. In daily life, it is advisable to consume more fresh vegetables and fruits such as cabbage, lettuce, and apples, which may aid in recovery.
