Appendicitis in Children

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix — a small, finger-like pouch at the end of the large intestine in the right lower belly. When it gets blocked by stool or infection, bacteria grow and it becomes swollen, painful, and can burst.

It is the most common cause of emergency abdominal surgery in children. It can occur at any age but is most common between 5 and 15 years.

Symptoms usually come in this order:

• Pain around the belly button that then moves to the right lower abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting, once or twice
• Low-grade fever
• Not passing gas or stool; the belly becomes tight
• In small children under 3 years: may only have fever, vomiting, irritability and a swollen belly

Early diagnosis prevents the appendix from bursting.

• Physical examination by a paediatric surgeon
• Blood tests — to check for infection
• Ultrasound of the abdomen — to see the appendix
• CT scan — only if needed

Surgery — appendectomy — is the main treatment.

• Laparoscopic / keyhole surgery: 3 small cuts, 30–45 minutes, less pain and faster recovery
• Open surgery: one small cut if the appendix has burst
• Hospital stay: 1–3 days depending on severity
• Antibiotics: given before and after surgery

Delaying surgery can lead to rupture, abscess, and a longer hospital stay.

• Start with liquids, then a soft diet after 12–24 hours
• Walk gently from the next day
• Keep the wound clean and dry; sponge bath for 3–4 days
• Avoid school and sports for 2 weeks
• Complete the full antibiotic course