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Appendicitis is a painful swelling of the appendix. The appendix is a small, thin pouch about 5-10cm (2-4 inches) long. It's connected to the large intestine, where stools (faeces) are formed.

Nobody knows exactly why we have an appendix, but removing it isn't harmful.



Pressing on this area, coughing, or walking may all make the pain worse. You may lose your appetite, feel sick, and occasionally experience Traveller's diarrhoea .

If these options aren't available, call NHS 111 for advice.

You should call 999 for an ambulance if you have sudden pain that continues to get worse and spreads across your abdomen.

These are signs your appendix may have burst, which can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.


Removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy or appendicectomy, is one of the most common operations in the UK and its success rate is excellent.

The operation is most commonly performed as keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) , which involves making several small cuts in your abdomen, through which special surgical instruments are inserted.

Open surgery, where a larger, single cut is made in the abdomen, is usually carried out if the appendix has burst or access is more difficult.

Most people make a full recovery from an appendectomy in a couple of weeks, although strenuous activities may need to be avoided for up to six weeks after open surgery.

Read moreabout treating appendicitis .

What causes appendicitis?

It's not exactly clear what the causes of appendicitis are. Most cases are thought to occur when somethingblocks the entrance of the appendix.

For example, a blockage may be formed by a small piece offaeces or an upper respiratory tract infection could lead toa swollen lymph node within the wall of the bowel.

This obstruction leads to the development of inflammation and swelling. The pressure caused by the swelling can then lead to the appendix bursting.

As the causes aren't fully understood, there's no guaranteed way of preventing appendicitis.

Who's affected?

Appendicitis is a common condition. Around 40,000 people are admitted to hospital with appendicitis each year in England.

It's estimated around1 in every 13 people develop it at some point in their life.

Appendicitis can develop at any age, but it's most common in young people aged from 10 to 20 years old.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016