Which symptom is most indicative of appendicitis?

The symptom most indicative of appendicitis is RLQ pain with gradual onset. This type of pain typically begins around the umbilical area before migrating to the right lower quadrant, which aligns with the classic presentation of appendicitis. The gradual onset is significant as it suggests the progressive inflammation and irritation of the appendix, leading to localized symptoms.

While other symptoms can be present in various abdominal conditions, the specific pattern of pain described here is characteristic of appendicitis and helps differentiate it from other potential abdominal issues. The migration of pain from the periumbilical region to the RLQ a few hours after the pain begins is a classic sign that healthcare providers look for when evaluating potential appendicitis cases.