Could I have Appendicitis?

Dear Ask The Doctor: About two weeks ago is when it all started. I ate something hot before I went to bed, and woke up really sick to my stomach. I ended up vomiting, but felt better after that. It seem's like all symptoms of appendicitis started hitting me after that. I would get sharp pains in both ribs and when i would move a certain way I would get a sharp pain in my belly button to. A little over a week ago, I had diarrhea for about two days. A couple day's ago I was constipated for about two day's. Yesterday it kind of just hit me. I got this sharp pain in my belly button and in my ribs that lasted for about 30 minutes. Once that calmed down it shifted to my right side around my apendix area. I feel a little nauseous but not bad enough to make me sick for to keep me from eating. Im afraid that it's all in my head or something, does it sound like it's appendicitis to you?

Dear Sylvia: Though appendicitis could explain some of your symptoms, it is unlikely. I note in your medical history kidney stones. Kidney stones can mimic appendicitis. Your symptoms sound more in keeping with a flare up of your kidney stones and possibly an infection in your urinary tract. The kidney stones also explain your recurrent bladder and kidney infections.

I strongly suggest seeing a kidney specialist to first determine the cause of your kidney stones and then to remove the stones you presently have. He/she will also recommend treatment to prevent further stone development.