Symptom 2: Loss of Appetite and Nausea
One of the earliest indicators of potential appendicitis in children is a sudden change in their appetite. Children, typically with healthy appetites, might start refusing foods they once loved. It’s not just about being picky; it’s an aversion that can often be accompanied by feelings of nausea.
The connection between the appendix and these symptoms lies in its position. Located at the junction of the small and large intestines, an inflamed appendix can influence the stomach’s functioning. As the inflammation worsens, it may cause the stomach to empty slower, leading to a feeling of fullness and subsequent loss of appetite.
However, the true concern arises when these symptoms escalate to vomiting. An occasional throw-up after eating might be dismissed as a one-off occurrence. But if your child starts vomiting repeatedly without any apparent cause like food poisoning, it’s a red flag. (2)