About the topic
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. Pain may begin near the centre of the abdomen and move towards the lower right, but patterns vary.
What to do now
- Arrange urgent assessment if abdominal pain is worsening or does not go away.
- Tell the clinician when pain began and about vomiting, fever and any possibility of pregnancy.
- This is not a condition to manage with home remedies.
Symptoms & signs
- Abdominal pain that worsens or moves towards the lower right side.
- Loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting.
- Fever or a change in bowel habits may occur.
When to speak with a clinician: Suspected appendicitis needs hospital assessment; symptoms alone cannot confirm or exclude it.
Food & nutrition
Suspected appendicitis needs urgent hospital care. This guide sets no fasting rule; your treating team must advise you.
Foods & nutrition to follow
- Get urgent assessment and follow the hospital's food and drink instructions.
- During recovery, ask about fluids and fibre if constipation develops.
Foods to limit or avoid
- Do not delay treatment to try a food remedy.
- Avoid starting a restrictive recovery diet without clinical advice.
About this guide
General adult health information; it does not diagnose your symptoms or replace individual medical advice. Follow any plan your treating team has given you.
Further reading from the clinical sources used for this guide: