Every person is at risk of developing appendicitis, as the exact reasons why this appendix of the intestine may become inflamed are unknown. However, doctors often rely on a number of characteristic signs, including elevated body temperature. 
Can appendicitis occur without a fever? Elena Yakusheva, a gastroenterologist at Consultative and Diagnostic Center NKC No. 2 of the RKI RNC named after Academician B.V. Petrovsky, shared this information with aif.ru.
What Causes Appendicitis?
There are various theories regarding this issue. One of them mentions chronic constipation, present in a person for a long time – sometimes even for years. In addition, improper nutrition with an excess of protein and a lack of fiber can provoke appendicitis. Sometimes infections are also considered provocateurs. However, it is not known for sure what exactly influences the development of the inflammatory process.
Causes of Acute Appendicitis
One of the main reasons for the development of acute appendicitis is the movement of accumulated contents in the appendix. This movement can be provoked by:
- food masses;
- fecal stones;
- worm infestations;
- proliferation of lymphoid tissue;
- appearance of new growths.
Due to mucus secretion, pressure inside the appendix lumen begins to increase against the blockage of the appendix.
How to Identify an Appendicitis Attack in a Child?
Appendicitis does not discriminate based on age – it can occur in both adults and children. It is especially important to pay attention in this matter to children and the elderly. Here, special vigilance is required, as they may not be able to clearly explain what, where, and how they are in pain. For example, if you look at a child, they may become less active, refuse to eat, cry. Symptoms of appendicitis in a child under three years old may include:
- drowsiness and lethargy;
- refusal to eat even favorite foods;
- disinterest in favorite activities, including watching cartoons and playing;
- unusual silence and even indifference to everything.
Among the more characteristic signs, pay attention to a sudden increase in body temperature to high levels and complaints of abdominal pain.
At the same time, the child may not be able to accurately point to the area where it hurts – they may move their hand around the entire area and often point to the navel. It is important to observe – if the child assumes a forced position, lies on the left side, and bends their legs, do not delay, call a doctor. Signs of appendicitis may also include: resistance when trying to lift or pull the child’s right leg towards their body. Also, pay attention to how they react when pressing on the abdomen – if you press on the left side and they grab the right side.
For children aged 4-7 and older, the situation is simpler – they can more clearly determine where the pain is localized. If the appendix is located typically, it will be easier to determine. If it is slightly to the left or behind the peritoneum, the child may point to other parts of the abdomen.
Also, do not forget to look for additional symptoms – if there is a high temperature, vomiting, or stool disturbances, there is a risk that it might be appendicitis.
How to Identify an Appendicitis Attack in an Adult?
Diagnosing appendicitis in adults can also be problematic. There are several typical signs that indicate a pathology – constant and wandering abdominal pain, abdominal muscle tension, nausea and bouts of vomiting, changes in stool characteristics, and an increase in body temperature. Do not self-medicate in this case – there is a risk of delaying treatment until rupture and peritonitis. Also, do not take pain relievers to avoid obscuring the picture and complicating the diagnosis.
Can Appendicitis Attack Occur Without a Fever?
Many wonder if it is possible for appendicitis to develop without an increase in body temperature. Typically, some level of temperature elevation is present. Initially, it may not exceed 37 degrees, known as subfebrile. However, if the pathological process continues without any treatment, the temperature can rise sharply and significantly. In this case, do not delay and seek emergency help, as such a symptom may indicate the development of complications.