Can children get appendicitis?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, children can develop appendicitis, and treatment approaches vary depending on the condition. For mild cases of simple appendicitis, conservative treatment may be attempted first. However, if the condition progresses to suppurative or gangrenous appendicitis, accompanied by severe abdominal pain, prompt surgical intervention is necessary to prevent complications. In daily life, it's important to cultivate good eating habits in children, avoid overeating, and limit consumption of raw, cold, and spicy foods.
In general, children can develop appendicitis, and different conditions require different treatments. For mild cases of simple appendicitis, conservative treatment may be attempted first; however, if the condition progresses to suppurative or gangrenous appendicitis with severe abdominal pain, prompt surgery is necessary to prevent complications.
Simple appendicitis presents with mild symptoms—children may only experience a dull pain in the lower right abdomen, along with slight nausea and loss of appetite. In such cases, intravenous antibiotics can control the infection, and fasting allows the intestines to rest. Some children may gradually recover without requiring immediate surgery.
When appendicitis worsens and leads to pus formation or perforation, children will suffer persistent, severe abdominal pain, often curling up and crying incessantly, and may also develop high fever and frequent vomiting. Without timely surgical intervention, this can lead to peritonitis. Immediate surgery to remove the affected appendix is required.
In daily life, it's important to cultivate healthy eating habits in children, avoiding overeating and limiting cold, spicy, or irritating foods to maintain regular bowel movements. Avoid vigorous running or jumping after meals to reduce the risk of abnormal intestinal motility. If a child experiences abdominal pain, do not massage the area or administer painkillers casually, as this may mask the symptoms and delay diagnosis.
