Diagnosing & Treating Appendicitis

The specialists at Houston Methodist Lynda K. and David M. Underwood Center for Digestive Health alleviate the pain and complications of appendicitis with world-renowned facilities and care from specialists with decades of experience. 

The aching or pain you’re feeling in the lower right side of your abdomen could be appendicitis. In most cases, the pain starts around the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen. As inflammation worsens, appendicitis pain typically increases and eventually becomes severe, often resulting in emergency care.

Because appendicitis is a condition with multiple causes — such as gastrointestinal (GI) tract infection or difficulty passing gas due to bowel obstruction — prevention is challenging, and early symptoms can be misleading. 

An accurate diagnosis and treatment plan from our nationally and internationally known gastroenterologists at the Underwood Center for Digestive Health is the fastest course to eliminate your pain. Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked No. 5 by U.S. News & World Report for Gastroenterology & GI Surgery. 

Minimally Invasive Surgical Care

Our surgeons specialize in minimally invasive treatment. We provide acute care surgery involving the stomach and digestive area, including a wide range of laparoscopic procedures. Our expertise and treatment methods allow for better patient outcomes, such as smaller incisions, less pain and faster recovery.  

Diagnosing Appendicitis

The specialists at the Underwood Center will evaluate your symptoms and examine the site of pain. Diagnosis may involve blood tests, urinalysis and imaging tests.

It’s helpful to know the following to share with your doctor:

• When did your abdominal pain start?
• Where exactly are you feeling pain?
• How severe is your pain?
• Have you noticed other symptoms besides pain?
• Have you had any other medical conditions or surgical procedures?