Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix and is a medical emergency because a rupture can cause life-threatening infection. Symptoms usually start as sudden pain near the belly button that shifts to the lower right abdomen, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, and tenderness. Surgery, called an appendectomy, is the only definitive treatment and can be done laparoscopically or through open surgery depending on the situation. Diagnosis and surgery are handled by a general surgeon, often using imaging tests to confirm the condition. Emergency procedure costs vary widely, and post-surgery recovery involves rest, gradual return to activities, avoiding heavy lifting, and usually allows full recovery within 1–3 weeks.