Appendix Burst – How Dangerous Is It?
A burst appendix (also called ruptured appendicitis) is a medical emergency. When the appendix becomes severely inflamed and is not treated in time, it can burst and spread infection throughout the abdomen — a life-threatening condition called peritonitis.
Early detection and timely surgery can prevent complications and save lives.
At Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic & Aayush Multispecialty Hospital, Thane, we provide urgent evaluation and expert surgical care for appendicitis and complications related to a ruptured appendix.
What Happens When the Appendix Bursts?
The appendix is a small pouch attached to the large intestine.
When it gets infected and swollen, pressure builds up inside. If untreated, it may burst and release:
- Pus
- Bacteria
- Stool particles
…into the abdominal cavity, causing a severe infection.
This leads to:
🔴 Peritonitis (infection of the abdominal lining)
A dangerous condition requiring immediate surgery.
🔴 Abscess Formation
Pockets of pus that may require drainage.
🔴 Sepsis (infection spreading through the bloodstream)
A life-threatening medical emergency.
Symptoms of a Burst Appendix
A ruptured appendix may show symptoms such as:
- Severe or spreading abdominal pain
- Pain that moves from the right lower abdomen to the whole stomach
- High fever
- Vomiting
- Distended/bloated abdomen
- Inability to pass gas
- Severe weakness
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Rapid heartbeat
Important:
Some patients feel temporary relief when the appendix bursts because the pressure reduces — but infection begins spreading rapidly.
This is extremely dangerous.
Why Does the Appendix Burst?
- Delayed treatment of appendicitis
- Blockage of the appendix
- Infection spreading quickly
- Ignoring early pain
- Self-medication with painkillers
Diagnosis of a Burst Appendix
Diagnosis includes:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests (high WBC count)
- Ultrasound
- CT scan for accurate detection
- Evaluation for abscess or peritonitis
Treatment for a Burst Appendix
A burst appendix cannot be treated with medicines alone.
It requires urgent medical and surgical intervention.
1. Emergency Surgery (Appendectomy)
The appendix is removed through open or laparoscopic surgery.
2. Cleaning the Abdominal Cavity
All infected fluid, pus, and debris are cleaned to avoid complications.
3. Drain Placement
Sometimes a drain is placed to remove infected fluid.
4. Antibiotics
Strong IV antibiotics are given to control infection.
5. Hospital Monitoring
Patients are kept under observation until infection is fully controlled.
Complications If Treatment Is Delayed
- Severe abdominal infection
- Abscess formation
- Intestinal obstruction
- Sepsis
- Multi-organ failure
- Death (in extreme untreated cases)
A burst appendix should never be ignored — it is a life-threatening emergency.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Visit a doctor immediately if you have:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Pain shifting to the right lower abdomen
- Fever with stomach pain
- Vomiting or nausea
- Abdominal swelling
- Pain worsening over hours
Early treatment prevents rupture and saves lives.
Why Patients Trust Dr. Ankur Bhanushali for Appendicitis Care
- Fast diagnosis & immediate management
- Expertise in laparoscopic appendectomy
- Advanced facility for emergency treatment
- High success rate with minimal complications
- Patient-centric and transparent care
📍 Contact Details
🏥 Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic
Shop No 4, Laxmi Krupa, Edulji Road, Charai, Thane West – 400602
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
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🏥 Aayush Multispecialty Hospital
👨⚕️ Dr. Ankur Bhanushali – General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Email: dr.ankur.bhanushali@gmail.com
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ankur-bhanushali-b85aab2a6/
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 Online Booking: https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
