Appendicitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of appendix which is a tissue connected to large intestine. This tissue of the size of finger has a tube like structure and the inner portion of the appendix is like a pouch opening into large intestine. In appendicitis, the appendix tends to experience inflammation and this results in severe pain in the abdominal region. The other symptoms related with the condition include fever in the range of 100 to 102 degrees F, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite etc. While there may be several causes of appendicitis, blockage of the appendix opening often results in this condition.

Blockage which is among the most frequent causes of appendicitis, tends to occur due to fecolith which basically refers to rock like stool. After the blockage, there is increase in pressure along with inflammation and impaired blood flow. It is important to treat the blockage in time otherwise it may result in rupture and gangrene. The blockage may also occur due to parasitic infection or lymph nodes inflammation. Inflammation of lymph nodes may cause the appendix to be squeezed and this in turn may result in obstruction. Following the inflammation of appendix, further bacterial growth may occur. In some other cases, a traumatic injury may cause inflammation in the appendix or appendicitis. Another reason for appendicitis may be genetic predisposition. Certain individuals may have a family history of developing appendicitis. Cancer may also result in appendicitis.

Besides family history, other factors that can increase the risk or possibility of patients developing appendicitis include age. Children under 2 years of age as well as those over 70 years are at a greater risk of suffering from this condition. Researchers in the recent past have indicated that there may be a link between exposure to certain air pollutants and increased risk of suffering from appendicitis.