Thank you for your question.
If you do have a history of IBS, then this could very well just be that. So long as your IBS has, in the past, produced somewhat localized abdominal pain and discomfort.
The "classic" symptoms of appedicitis are:
abdominal pain - most often in the right lower quadrant, but this can also start at the belly button, and can even be in the left lower quadrant, depending on where the appendix is located in the patient.
lack of appetite, or anorexia
nausea and/or vomiting
occasional diarrhea or constipation
fever
But there are atypical presentations of appendicitis. So, be observant, and if your symptoms don't resolve or get better (at least to the point of where they seem consistent with your IBS), or if you get worse, then head into the emergency department. There, an appropriate exam, bloodwork, and a CT scan can help figure out if appendicitis is really the cause.
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any further questions - I'm more than happy to help.
Take care - Dr. Fay
Edited by jcfay on September 26 2006 at 3:46pm
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