Parents often hear it from their children: “My tummy hurts.” It’s hard to know if it’s a simple stomachache from eating too many sweets or something more serious.
As an emergency physician and Assistant Medical Director of The Urgency Room, one of the more common surgical emergencies I see in children is appendicitis. While it can affect people of all ages, appendicitis often presents differently in kids, and catching it early can make a big difference in treatment and recovery.
What Is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. In most cases, it occurs when the appendix becomes blocked, often by stool, a foreign body, or an infection. If left untreated, the appendix can burst, leading to a serious infection in the abdomen.
What Are the Signs of Appendicitis in Children?
Unlike adults, children, especially younger ones, don’t always show textbook symptoms. That’s why parents need to be aware of the early warning signs:
- Abdominal pain typically begins around the belly button and then shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen. Some younger children may have a hard time describing the location of their pain other than to say, “My tummy hurts.”
- Loss of appetite: A sudden disinterest in food is common.
- Nausea and vomiting: typically follow the onset of pain.
- Fever: Usually low-grade, but may rise if the appendix ruptures.
- Fatigue or irritability: Young children may not verbalize pain but may act unusually tired or cranky.
- Pain with movement: Children may avoid walking, coughing, or jumping due to pain.
When to Seek Care
If your child has persistent abdominal pain, especially if it worsens over several hours or is accompanied by vomiting or fever, seek care immediately. Appendicitis can worsen quickly, and early diagnosis is key to avoiding complications.
At The Urgency Room, we frequently evaluate children for abdominal pain. With on-site imaging, labs, and experienced emergency-trained physicians, we can diagnose appendicitis and coordinate immediate surgical care if needed.
How Is It Treated?
Most cases of appendicitis require surgical removal of the appendix, called an appendectomy. This is a common and safe procedure. If the appendix has not ruptured, recovery is typically fast. They can often go home the same day or the next day, and most return to normal activities within a week. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the ability to return to more strenuous activities like sports can take several weeks, depending on the severity of the appendicitis and the type of surgery.
As a parent, trust your instincts. You know when something isn’t right with your child. If your child has worsening abdominal pain, don’t wait it out. Prompt evaluation can lead to faster treatment, less pain, and better outcomes.
Dr. Kristi Trussell is an ER physician and Assistant Medical Director of The Urgency Room
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