The appendix is not an essential organ, but it can cause people trouble if it becomes infected or inflamed. About 7 percent of the population will get appendicitis at some point in their life, according to the American Family Physician website. The appendix is a small tube, shaped like a finger, located between your large and small intestines. Children get appendicitis more often than adults do. Children and adults who may have appendicitis should immediately go to a doctor. If the appendix bursts, it spills bacteria into the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain near the belly button is a symptom of appendicitis. The pain gravitates to the right side. Sometimes putting pressure on the pain and removing the pressure will make the pain worse. You can test yourself or your child by pressing on the abdomen. If that area feels tender and becomes even more painful after you release the pressure, this indicates appendicitis pain, according to the Health Guidance website.
Fever
A low-grade fever of 100 to 101 F, combined with abdominal pain or tenderness, is a common symptom of appendicitis.
No Appetite
If you or your child does not have an appetite, is nauseous or is vomiting, this may be a sign of appendicitis.
Frequent Urination
Children who have appendicitis cannot control their bladder for very long and will frequently have to urinate.
Swelling
If the appendix is infected and inflamed, you may see some swelling in the abdomen.
Coughing
If moving around or coughing increases the pain, this may be a sign of appendicitis.
Pain in Thigh
Sometimes, people feel pain in the right thigh instead of in the abdomen, according to the American Family Physician website.
Widespread Pain
Infants and children may feel pain throughout their body, rather than having the pain confined to the abdominal area.
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