Diagnosing appendicitis can be tricky. Symptoms are often unclear or similar to those of other illnesses, including gallbladder problems, bladder or urinary tract infection, Crohn’s disease, gastritis, kidney stones, intestinal infection, and ovary problems.
It is not recommended to try to diagnose appendicitis at home. Appendicitis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. The following symptoms may be an indication that you have developed appendicitis:
- Pain in your lower right belly or pain near your navel that moves lower (usually the first sign).
- Nausea and vomiting soon after belly pain begins
- Fever of 99-102 F
- Swollen belly
- Can’t pass gas
- Loss of appetite
If you suspect that you or someone has appendicitis, it is important to seek medical help right away. A doctor can perform a physical examination and order tests to determine if appendicitis is present. These tests can help diagnose appendicitis:
- Examination of your abdomen to look for inflammation
- Urine (pee) test to rule out a urinary tract infection
- Rectal exam
- Blood test to see whether your body is fighting an infection
- CT scans
- Ultrasound
It is important to receive prompt treatment for appendicitis, as the condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.