Q. What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert


let's talk about the sneaky signs that might signal appendicitis. Remember, I'm not a replacement for a doctor, but I'm here to give you some insights.

1. Abdominal Pain:
The classic symptom! Pain near your belly button that moves to the lower right side might indicate appendicitis. It often starts as a dull ache and becomes sharper.

2. Loss of Appetite:
If you find yourself pushing away your favorite snacks, your appendix might be trying to get your attention. Loss of appetite is a common, though sometimes overlooked, symptom.

3. Nausea and Vomiting:
Feeling queasy? Appendicitis can throw your stomach for a loop, leading to nausea and, in some cases, vomiting. Your body's way of saying, "Houston, we have a problem."

4. Low-Grade Fever:
A slight increase in body temperature can accompany appendicitis. If you're running a low-grade fever and not feeling your best, it's worth checking out.

5. Rebound Tenderness:
Here's a fancy term – rebound tenderness. Press down on your lower right abdomen, release quickly, and if it hurts more when you let go, it's a sign you should see a doc.

6. Changes in Bowel Habits:
Appendicitis can mess with your usual bathroom routine. You might experience constipation, diarrhea, or changes in how you usually do your business.

7. Abdominal Swelling:
Your belly playing host to an uninvited guest (appendicitis) can lead to swelling. If your pants suddenly feel snug without a good reason, take note.

8. Sharp Pain During Movement:
A sudden jolt of pain when you cough, sneeze, or make sudden movements could be your appendix shouting for attention.

9. Painful Urination:
In some cases, appendicitis can cause discomfort during urination. If you notice this, it's a red flag.

10. Worsening Over Time:
Appendicitis doesn't usually get better on its own. If anything, it tends to ramp up. If you're experiencing persistent discomfort, it's not a wait-and-see situation.

Remember, these symptoms can vary from person to person, and some people might not exhibit all of them. When in doubt, don't play the guessing game – consult a healthcare professional. Appendicitis isn't something you want to leave unchecked.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Looking for expert medical advice and care can be a daunting task, especially when you need it urgently. But with Second Medic, you can connect with the best doctors in just a few minutes and have a private care conversation with them, all for free!

Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to get the medical advice and care you need without any hassle. Whether you have a minor health concern or a serious medical condition, our team of experienced doctors are here to help.

At Second Medic, we understand the importance of timely and reliable medical advice. That's why we've made it our mission to provide you with the best possible care, at the convenience of your own home.

Our platform is easy to use, and you can connect with a doctor in just a few simple steps. All you need to do is create an account, tell us about your health concern, and we'll match you with a doctor who has the expertise to help you.

You can then have a private care conversation with your doctor, where you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns you may have. Our doctors will then provide you with expert advice and guidance on the next steps to take.

So, whether you're looking for medical advice, a second opinion, or a prescription refill, Second Medic has got you covered. With our platform, you can get the care you need, when you need it, all for free!