Appendicitis Say: uh-pen-di-SYE-tis When a person's appendix gets inflamed (swells up), it's called appendicitis. Sometimes this happens after there is an infection in the intestine. Other times, something causes a blockage in the appendix. And sometimes there isn't a clear reason why it happens. If someone has appendicitis, the appendix will need to be taken out during an operation called an appendectomy. Back to Articles Related Articles Going to the Hospital It may seem scary to go to a hospital, but doctors and nurses are there to help people who are sick or hurt feel better. Read our article for kids to find out what happens inside a hospital. Read More What Happens in the Operating Room? Surgeries and operations happen in the operating room, sometimes called the OR. Find out more in this article for kids. Read More Your Digestive System The digestive system breaks down the food you eat. Learn how in this article for kids. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.