Which of the following is typically NOT a symptom of appendicitis?

The correct answer identifies diarrhea as a symptom that is typically not associated with appendicitis. Appendicitis often presents with a classic set of symptoms that includes right lower quadrant pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. In appendicitis, pain typically starts around the belly button and then migrates to the right lower quadrant as the condition progresses, which is a hallmark symptom. Nausea usually accompanies this pain, as the inflammation can affect the gastrointestinal system and lead to feelings of queasiness. Additionally, patients often experience a loss of appetite, which is also common.

While some individuals may experience diarrhea due to various gastrointestinal causes, it is not a primary symptom of appendicitis. In fact, appendicitis can lead to constipation due to irritation in the intestines. Therefore, understanding the typical presentation of appendicitis can help distinguish it from other gastrointestinal issues that might include diarrhea as a symptom.