How to recognise possible appendicitis in a teenager

Appendicitis cannot be confirmed or ruled out at home. Parents can recognise concerning changes and seek timely medical help. Severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, marked weakness or deterioration requires urgent assessment. In Russia, call 103 or 112; elsewhere, use the local emergency number. Do not wait for a routine appointment.

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large bowel. Without timely treatment, it can rupture and spread infection within the abdomen.

Possible symptoms

Pain often starts near the belly button and later moves to the lower right abdomen. Movement, coughing or deep breathing may make it worse. Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and fever can occur.

However, symptoms do not always follow this pattern. The pain may be felt elsewhere, and the temperature may remain normal. Constipation or diarrhoea is possible. The absence of vomiting or classic right-sided pain does not exclude appendicitis.

Do not wait for every symptom to appear. Persistent pain, increasing intensity and the teenager’s overall condition are important reasons to seek help.

Why home checks cannot give an answer

Abdominal pain may be caused by an intestinal infection, constipation or a urinary condition. Gynaecological and urological emergencies also need consideration in teenagers.

Pressing and suddenly releasing the abdomen or asking a teenager to jump cannot reliably establish the diagnosis. Avoid performing these tests. Temporary pain relief is not proof that the situation is safe, particularly if the teenager subsequently becomes more unwell.

What to do while arranging care

Let the teenager rest and arrange urgent medical assessment. Do not apply heat, give laxatives or use an enema. Do not start antibiotics without medical advice. If a surgical condition is suspected, avoid food until the medical team gives instructions; ask the dispatcher or clinician whether fluids are appropriate.

Do not delay seeking care while trying to manage pain. Ask a medical professional about suitable pain relief. Report the name, dose and timing of anything already taken. Appropriate analgesia is part of modern assessment and does not need to be withheld simply to preserve symptoms.

How clinicians diagnose appendicitis

A clinician reviews the history and examines the abdomen. Blood tests, urine testing and ultrasound may be used. Uncertain cases may require observation in hospital, reassessment or additional imaging. An inconclusive ultrasound alone does not rule out appendicitis. A surgical team determines the appropriate treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Can appendicitis occur without fever

Yes. A normal temperature does not exclude it when abdominal pain persists.

Can we wait until morning

Do not wait if pain is worsening, appendicitis is suspected or the teenager is deteriorating. Seek urgent assessment where surgical care is available.