What causes appendicitis
Appendicitis can be caused by many things, but the most common is an obstruction in the appendix. It can be caused by a piece food or a tumor. The appendix can be infected or inflamed. (4)
Blockage
Appendicitis is most commonly caused by a blockage. This can be anything that prevents the digestive juices flowing from the small intestine into the appendix. Feces, stool, mucus or foreign objects, such as food, are the most common causes of this obstruction of the appendix opening. Bacteria can grow in the appendix and cause pain and inflammation. Appendicitis can result. Appendixes become inflamed when something, such as stool, blocks them for a prolonged period of time. This inflammation can eventually lead to rupture and perforation of the appendix.
Infections
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix is inflamed. Inflammation is usually caused by a bacterial infection, but can also be a result of a virus or parasite infection.
- Bacterial Infection – When bacteria from the intestines spread into the appendix, it is called Appendicitis. An appendix that is infected with bacteria will swell up and rupture. Pain in the abdomen, and a high-grade fever are two of the most common symptoms. Untreated bacteria can spread throughout the body. Appendicitis can be treated with antibiotics or surgery to remove the appendix.
Appendicitis can be caused by several types of bacteria. Escherichia Coli, or E.coli as it is commonly known, is the most common bacterium. This bacteria type is normally harmless and found in the intestines. In some cases, it can reach the appendix causing inflammation and infection. Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and other bacteria can also cause appendicitis.
- Viral Infection –Viral infections are the most common cause of appendicitis. They account for over 60% of all cases. Appendicitis can be caused by many different viruses. Appendicitis is more common in cases of acute bacterial infections, while chronic fungus and viral infections are more common.
CMV is a virus that has been associated with appendicitis. This virus can be found in healthy people’s saliva and urine. CMV may infect and inflame the appendix in certain cases. Herpes simplex (HSV) is another virus associated with appendicitis. Cold sores, genital herpes and genital shingles are caused by this virus. HSV can infect and cause inflammation of the appendix. These viruses may be the cause of some appendicitis cases, but they aren’t the only ones.
- Parasitic Infection – While bacterial or viral causes of appendicitis are more common in most cases, it is possible that an infection caused by parasites can also cause the condition. During autopsy, parasites are commonly found in the appendix. More research is required to determine whether a parasitic infection causes appendicitis.
Parasitic infection is common in developing nations, but it can also happen in developed countries. This infection can be caused by a variety of parasites including worms and protozoa. The type of parasite that is causing the infection can produce a variety of symptoms. Some parasites may damage appendix tissue, while others may disrupt normal body functions.
- Fungal Infection – Some cases of appendicitis may be caused by a fungal infection. The appendix can be infected by fungi through the lymphatic or blood system. The fungus, once it has reached the appendix can cause inflammation that leads to appendicitis. A fungal infection that is not treated can cause death. Appendicitis due to a fungus infection is treated with antibiotics and by surgically removing the appendix.
Trauma or injury to the abdomen
Appendicitis is often caused by abdominal trauma or injury. Appendicitis can be caused by the blockage that forms from an injury. The body sends white blood cells in the affected area to fight any infection. This response can sometimes lead to tissue damage and inflammation in the appendix. Appendicitis is the result. It can occur when the abdomen is hit, such as in a car crash. This can happen when something heavy or sharp punctures the appendix.
Appendicitis can be caused in some cases by an infection that has spread to the appendix from elsewhere. Appendicitis can be a serious illness that needs immediate treatment. Untreated appendicitis can rupture and cause life-threatening complications.
A new study analyzed the medical records of over 1,600 patients that had appendicitis surgery. Nearly 15% of patients who had appendicitis surgeries experienced trauma in the week before the surgery.
Lead author of the study, Dr. Nathan Selden said that findings from his research suggest that trauma could be a cause for appendicitis. The research, he said, could improve our understanding of the causes and possible preventions for appendicitis.
Tumor
Appendicitis can be caused by a tumor, which is relatively uncommon. Tumors that grow around or in the appendix can cause obstruction and inflammation. Appendicitis symptoms include nausea and abdominal pain.
Many theories exist on the cause of appendicitis. However, the most likely one is that a tumor blocks the appendix. This causes bacteria to grow, causing inflammation. The tumor may also produce substances that irritate or swell the appendix.
In a new study, 9 percent of appendicitis cases were caused by tumors. Researchers analyzed data on more than 2,500 appendicitis patients who underwent surgery between 2006 and 2013 The researchers found that the most common tumors found in appendixes belonged to patients with other health issues and were older.
The study did find a link between appendicitis and tumors, but it is still unclear whether the tumors cause the condition or develop as a consequence. It will take more research to establish the role that tumors play in appendicitis.
