Appendicitis Tests
Appendicitis Tests
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix that can be caused by blockage due to fecal matter or a tumor. The appendix is located in the lower right side of the abdomen. When a person has appendicitis, they will usually experience sudden severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. To diagnose appendicitis, a full physical examination and imaging tests such as an abdominal CT scan or an abdominal ultrasound are needed.
Types of Tests for Appendicitis
The two most common tests for diagnosing appendicitis are the physical exam and the imaging tests. During the physical exam, your doctor will press on your abdomen and ask about your symptoms. Imaging tests, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, can detect inflammation, obstruction, and infections in the abdominal cavity.
What to Expect During an Appendicitis Test
The physical exam begins with a full medical history and examination of the abdomen, including feeling for tenderness and swelling. The doctor will also take blood tests and urine samples. The imaging tests will involve either a CT scan or an abdominal ultrasound. During the scan, a small amount of dye may be injected into the bloodstream to help the images taken be clearer. The procedure may be uncomfortable, but it is not painful.
Preparing for an Appendicitis Test
Before the test, your doctor may ask you to drink large amounts of fluids to help with the scan. It is important to have a full bladder during the test. You may also be asked to remove any clothing and jewelry that may interfere with the imaging.
Risks of Appendicitis Tests
The imaging tests used to diagnose appendicitis are generally considered safe procedures with few risks. Rarely, the procedure may cause problems such as an allergic reaction to the dye used in the scan. Other risks are uncommon but may include radiation exposure, infection, and bleeding. Talk to your doctor about any potential risks before the procedure.
When Is Appendicitis Testing Needed?
Appendicitis testing is recommended for all people who experience sudden and severe abdominal pain, especially if it gets worse over time. The tests are also used to diagnose other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as bladder or kidney infections, Crohn’s disease, and diverticulitis.
Conclusion
Appendicitis tests are used to diagnose the condition by examining the abdominal area for inflammation, obstruction, and infections. The two most common tests are the physical exam and imaging tests such as a CT scan or abdominal ultrasound. Preparing for the tests may involve drinking large amounts of fluids and removing any clothing or jewelry that may interfere with the imaging. The procedure is generally considered safe with few risks, but talk to your doctor about any potential risks before the procedure. Appendicitis testing is recommended for all people who experience sudden and severe abdominal pain.
