It is not considered essential for the body, but its inflammation can cause health problems.
What is the appendix?
The appendix is a small tubular extension that ends in a blind end. Shaped like a small pouch, it is about 10 cm long and is connected to the first part of the large intestine.
It is located in the lower right region of the abdomen, in the cecum, which in turn is connected to the first portion of the large intestine .
What is the appendix for?
For a long time, people sought to understand the function of the appendix in the body, and it was believed that the appendix was a vestigial organ, that is, that with evolution it became unused due to adaptation to new lifestyles, different from those of more primitive ancestors.
Today, it is known that the appendix serves as a shelter for intestinal bacteria that aid in digestion and prevent infections. This conclusion came after studies and research considered the hypothesis that the appendix was used in the digestion of vegetables.
Researchers also point out that inside the appendix there is a large concentration of lymphocytes , which are defense cells, indicating their relationship with the immune system .
However, if the appendix is removed, its absence does not cause any harm, anomaly or deficiency to the organism, as it is one of the organs in the human body without which you can survive .
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix and occurs frequently in children, adolescents and young adults.
Its causes are still not fully understood. However, it is believed that obstruction of the intestine with feces or fat results in the development of inflammation and swelling of the appendix.
If the appendix is left untreated, it is possible for it to rupture, which can cause a serious infection and be life-threatening.
Symptoms of appendicitis
Symptoms of appendicitis can vary depending on the level of inflammation and possible rupture. The main characteristic of appendicitis is the appearance of pain in the abdominal region .
See below other typical symptoms of appendicitis
- Abdominal pain, initially in the center of the abdomen and over time more intense in the lower right side;
- Vomiting;
- Nausea;
- Fever;
- Diarrhea;
- Loss of appetite.
In some cases, the appendix may rupture, providing momentary relief from pain. However, after this, the condition may worsen and the symptoms may become more intense.
Appendicitis treatment
In cases of appendicitis, it is common to remove the organ through surgery and use antibiotics.
After identifying a possible appendicitis, antibiotic treatment is carried out so that the appendix can be removed.
Surgery is the main treatment for appendicitis, because if it is infected it can rupture and cause damage to your health.
It is estimated that 1 in 13 people will develop appendicitis at some point in their lives.
