6. Elton John’s Ticking Abdominal Time Bomb

It was a huge disappointment to fans when Elton John had to cancel a few shows during his 2013 tour, but that was nothing compared to what could have happened.

Unknown to the star, he was harboring a serious case of appendicitis that could have turned fatal if untreated.

The cancellations were undoubtedly a disappointment to John, too. The songwriter has often expressed his high regard and gratitude to his listeners, as well as his determination to give a good show every time.

The incident is not uncommon, since even medical professionals find the disease difficult to diagnose.

Symptoms vary greatly and sometimes occur in different parts of the body in different patients.

The condition is often heralded by a dull pain in the belly button region, but this is so mild as to often confused with ordinary gas. This pain may move around the abdomen as it grows more intense.

With children, the symptoms are often completely different. Pain may occur in the side or another part of the abdomen, inviting a misdiagnosis of indigestion, bruising or muscle strain. In pregnant women, the pain may also be in atypical areas. The situation is further confused by the fact that movement of the legs often makes the pain worse, making it unclear where the problem lies.

When celebrities have health problems, it brings those illnesses to public attention. Many people probably have not thought about appendicitis in years, but hearing about Elton John’s recent problem will remind them of it. Some of those people may have the symptoms someday, remember reading about the possible cause and seek the proper treatment in time.

Elton would like that.