Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Appendicitis


Overview

Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix gets inflamed and filled with pus. The appendix is a pouch on the colon that has no known purpose.

Symptoms

Appendicitis pain typically starts near the navel, shifting to the lower right belly. The pain often grows over 12 to 18 hours, becoming severe.

Treatments

The standard treatment is surgical removal.