Causes of appendicitis that can lead to peritonitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small, tube-shaped organ located at the beginning of the large intestine. Although it seems like a minor problem, if not treated promptly, it can progress to peritonitis, a serious, life-threatening complication.

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The most common cause is a blocked appendix, which prevents the normal flow of mucus and causes bacterial buildup. Factors that can cause this blockage include:

• Hardened fecal matter (fecalites) that blocks the appendix duct.
• Foreign bodies such as seeds or undigested food fragments.
• Gastrointestinal infections that inflame the internal tissue.
• Lymphoid hyperplasia, an enlargement of nearby lymph nodes due to an immune response.
• From inflammation to peritonitis

If the inflammation is not treated, the internal pressure of the appendix increases until its walls weaken and rupture. This releases pus and bacteria into the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis: a generalized infection of the peritoneum (the membrane that covers the abdominal organs).

Peritonitis can develop within a few hours of perforation and requires emergency surgery along with powerful antibiotics.

Factors that accelerate complication

• Delaying medical attention thinking the pain is indigestion or colic.
• Self-medicating with painkillers, which can mask symptoms.
• More aggressive infections or a weakened immune system.

Warning symptoms

Typical signs of appendicitis include:

• Abdominal pain that starts in the middle and moves to the lower right side.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever.
• Loss of appetite.
• Abdomen that is rigid or very sensitive to touch.

There's no way to prevent appendicitis, but seeing a doctor immediately if you experience persistent abdominal pain is key to preventing it from progressing to peritonitis. Early diagnosis and surgery reduce the risk of serious consequences and promote faster recovery.

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