Pain on the Right Side of Your Belly? Signs of Appendicitis Explained by a Surgeon

If you’ve ever experienced sharp pain in the lower right side of your stomach, especially with fever, nausea, or vomiting, it could be more than just a stomach bug. You might be dealing with appendicitis — a medical emergency that requires quick attention.

In this blog, we’ll help you understand the early signs of appendicitis, when to visit a doctor, and how surgeons treat it. You’ll also hear expert opinions from doctors at Neptune Hospital, where some of the Best general surgeon in south Delhi are helping patients recover safely and fully.

What Is Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix — a small, tube-like organ attached to the large intestine. While no one knows exactly why the appendix exists, we do know this: when it gets blocked or infected, it can cause severe abdominal pain and can become life-threatening if not treated.

If left untreated, the appendix can burst and lead to serious infections inside the abdomen. That’s why early diagnosis and surgery are key.

Common Signs of Appendicitis

“One of the biggest challenges is that appendicitis can mimic other problems like gas, acidity, or food poisoning. But sharp, continuous pain in the right lower belly is a red flag.”

Here are the classic symptoms of appendicitis:

• Sudden pain near the belly button, which moves to the lower right side

• Pain worsens when you cough, walk, or apply pressure

• Nausea or vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Low-grade fever

• Bloating or gas

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Tenderness in the lower right side of your abdomen

Note: Not everyone has all these symptoms. Children and elderly people may show different signs.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If the pain starts suddenly and gets worse with movement, don’t ignore it. Waiting too long could lead to the bursting of the appendix, which is extremely dangerous.

At Neptune Hospital, emergency cases are handled promptly. Their surgical team, which includes some of the Best general surgeon in south Delhi, is trained to handle appendicitis and other urgent abdominal conditions with advanced laparoscopic techniques for faster recovery.

How Is Appendicitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing appendicitis isn’t always simple. Surgeons rely on a combination of:

• Physical examination (checking the location of pain)

• Blood tests (to detect infection)

• Ultrasound or CT scan (to view the inflamed appendix)

If appendicitis is confirmed, the surgeon will usually recommend surgery immediately — to remove the appendix before it bursts.

Appendicitis Treatment – The Surgeon’s Role

The most common and safest treatment is an appendectomy — surgery to remove the appendix.

There are two types:

1. Laparoscopic Appendectomy

• Small incisions

• Less pain and faster recovery

• Minimal scarring

• Discharge in 24-48 hours
  

2. Open Surgery

• Used if the appendix has already burst or if infection has spread

• Longer recovery time, but still effective
  

“Appendectomy is one of the most common surgeries, and when done early, patients recover fully with no long-term effects.”

What Happens After Surgery?

Post-surgery care is crucial for full healing. You’ll need:

• Rest for a few days

• Light meals and lots of fluids

• Medication to control pain and prevent infection

• Follow-up visits to monitor healing

If done laparoscopically, most patients can return to normal routine in a week. Kids and younger adults often recover even faster.

FAQs About Appendicitis

❓ Can appendicitis go away on its own?

In rare cases, mild appendicitis may settle with antibiotics. But in most cases, surgery is the safest solution to prevent complications.

❓ Is it dangerous to delay treatment?

Yes. A ruptured appendix can cause peritonitis — a serious infection of the abdominal lining, which may lead to ICU admission or even death.

❓ Can I live a normal life without an appendix?

Absolutely. The appendix is not essential for your health, and life goes on completely normal after it’s removed.

The Surgeon’s Role in Your Healing Journey

A general surgeon isn’t just someone who performs an operation. They’re the doctor who:

• Diagnoses your problem

• Explains what’s going on inside your body

• Helps you overcome fear about surgery

• Performs the operation with precision

• Guides your healing step by step
  

“Our goal is not just to remove the appendix. Our goal is to restore the patient’s health, peace of mind, and strength to get back to life without fear.”

Don’t Ignore That Pain

That nagging pain in the right lower side of your belly could be more serious than you think. Appendicitis is common — but if you catch it early, it’s easy to treat, and you can get back on your feet in no time.

If you or your loved one has similar symptoms, don’t wait. Visit Neptune Hospital, where a team led by the Best general surgeon in south Delhi is always ready to help — with the best care, the right guidance, and a human touch.