 We explain how you recognize if you are in need of an appendectomy. This is Tom. Yesterday he noticed that his stomach hurt and he has some mild fever, but today it's gotten much worse. He is nauseous and he can't even stand up straight or walk without pain. His mother checks his temperature. It's at almost 38 degrees Celsius and Tom's stomach hurts on its lower right side. She immediately takes him to the doctor where her suspicion is confirmed. Tom has an inflamed appendix, which needs to be treated immediately. An inflamed appendix usually results from a blockage in the appendix. This blockage may be a build-up of mucus, parasites, or fecal matter, which is the cause most of the time. If the appendix is blocked, bacteria multiply quickly inside the organ, which leads to it becoming swollen and irritated. Tom needs to be treated immediately. Otherwise, his appendix can rupture and release dangerous bacteria into his body. A ruptured appendix is a life-threatening situation. That's why he is rushed into the OR. The only treatment of an inflamed appendix is an appendectomy. The surgical removal of the appendix is a minimally invasive operation most of the time. That's why Tom will be able to leave the hospital soon and return to normal life. Also, the appendix itself does not provide any vital function, so Tom can live without it without any impairment. Most of the time, appendicitis happens between the ages of 10 and 30. Unfortunately, Tom couldn't have prevented the inflammation of his appendix. Nevertheless, it seems less likely to happen when eating lots of fiber. Now that he knows of the consequences, Tom will make sure that anyone noticing these symptoms will seek medical attention immediately.