Question: Acute appendicitis in pregnancy
Answer:
- Appendicitis can occur at any stage of life. It is also common among pregnant mothers however diagnosis is difficult at this stage due to alterations in the body structure.
- Symptoms of nausea and vomiting, specific for appendicitis may be confused with symptoms associated with pregnancy. Even Laboratory investigations will also show elevated WBC levels, which are common to both the conditions
- As the uterus increases in size, the appendix moves from its usual position in the right iliac fossa, downwards or backwards. This further makes it difficult to diagnose appendicitis.
Treatment for appendicitis during pregnancy
Options for treatment of appendicitis in pregnancy:
- In early stages of pregnancy, the surgery can be conducted with support of progesterone to preserve the pregnancy.
- In later stages of pregnancy, surgical removal of appendix, using laparoscopic method is recommended after diagnosis has been confirmed. There is a possibility of premature labour in such conditions, which depends upon the ability of the surgeon and the position of the inflamed appendix. Please consult your gynecologist before undergoing surgery.
- Homeopathic drugs like Lachesis, Belladonna and Arsenic Alba are know to have palliative action on the pain and systemic conditions like fever and vomiting.However, surgery is inevitable. Early surgical removal is recommended to avoid appendix from rupturing and complicating the situation.
- Related Topics
- Types of Appendicitis | Where is the Appendix | Acute Appendicitis
- Acute Appendicitis Complications | Appendix Rupture | Appendicular Mass and Abscess
- Symptoms of Acute Appendicitis | Acute Appendicitis Diagnosis
- Symptoms Of Ruptured Appendix | Complications Of Appendicitis
- Appendicitis And Pregnancy: Appendicitis In Pregnancy Symptoms
