Understanding Appendicitis -- Symptoms

Medically Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian, MD on July 28, 2021
2 min read

The classic symptoms of appendicitis include:

  • Dull pain near the navel or the upper or lower abdomen that becomes sharp as it moves to the lower right abdomen; this is usually the first sign, but it occurs in less than half of appendicitis cases.
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting soon after abdominal pain begins
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Temperature of 100 to 101 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Constipation or diarrhea with gas
  • Inability to pass gas

In many cases, atypical symptoms appear, including:

  • Dull or sharp pain anywhere in the upper or lower abdomen, back, or rectum
  • Painful urination
  • Vomiting that precedes the abdominal pain

 

After an appendectomy, call your doctor right away if you have:

  • Persistent vomiting
  • Continued pain in your abdomen
  • Dizziness/feelings of faintness
  • Blood in your vomit, urine, or stool
  • Fever
  • Diarrhea