Appendicitis
Most people who have appendicitis, an inflammation of the appendix, experience sudden pain that’s bad enough to warrant an emergency room trip. Appendicitis is more common in children and young adults (though it can happen to older adults) and usually starts with pain in the mid-abdomen, progressing into the lower right part of the abdomen. “A telltale sign is pain when you bend your leg because it’s pulling a muscle near your appendix as you make that motion,” says Dr. Raymond.
If the appendix isn’t removed, it can burst, leading to long-term hospitalization and potentially life-threatening peritonitis. Head to the emergency room right away if you think appendicitis is causing your tummy pain. Raymond says it’s extremely normal to have your appendix removed and is a routine procedure.
