Symptoms of Appendicitis

Although the symptoms of appendicitis can vary, the first physical sign is usually a cramping pain around the navel (bellybutton) that comes and goes. Sufferers may not feel like eating, and may even feel nauseous and vomit. After a few hours, the pain will move to the lower right hand side of the abdomen, which means that the peritoneum (the inner lining of the abdomen) has become inflamed.

Patients may also develop a mild fever of around 37.5°C (99°F), experience constipation or diarrhoea, frequent urination, and develop a furred tongue.

The sharp pain will then usually settle at a point approximately halfway between the top of the right pelvic bone and the navel, at a place known as McBurney point. When pressure is applied to this spot, it will feel tender, which may become worse when the pressure is released - this is known as rebound tenderness. The pain will also be aggravated by any jarring movements such as coughing, laughing or walking. The pain will be alleviated somewhat when the patient lies on their side and pulls their knees up toward their chest.