The appendix is a vestigial organ; a narrow, finger
tissue that is present in the lower right side of the abdomen. Its functions
are not yet known for certain, with some explanations suggesting that it may
have a role in gut immunity, or that it may be rhe remnants of an organ that
was instrumental in helping our ancestors, the apes, digest cellulose, back
when leaves constituted a significant portion of the diet. However, it has been
established that a person can survive without this organ, with no apparent
consequences.
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix
characterized by pain around the navel and lower right abdomen. If left untreated,
the pain becomes severe and may result in the appendix bursting, which can
release bacteria into the abdominal cavity. In some cases, this may be fatal.
Therefore, it is very important to seek immediate medical attention in case of
any signs of abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting and fever. Columbia Asia is
a renowned general surgery hospital in India that has the required
facilities as well as experienced healthcare personnel to deal with such
complications.
Symptoms
of Appendicitis
The initial signs of appendicitis includes pain in rhe
abdomen, near the “belly button” region radiating towards the lower right
abdomen. Usually, all the symptoms do not present themselves and a person may
suffer from a combination of these signs:
- Pain in the lower right abdomen and around the navel.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal swelling
- Indigestion
- Low-grade fever in the range of 99- 102 degrees
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea
- Inability to pass gas
- Difficulty or pain in passing urine
- Cramps
What causes
Appendicitis?
The exact cause of this disorder is unknown. However,
it is likely that an infection due to an obstruction in the lining of the
appendix is one of the major factors that can trigger this condition. This
blockage may be caused by tumors, accumulation of hardened stool, any traumatic
injury or even intestinal worms. The tissue may become swollen due to the
effects of inflammatory bowel disease, for example Crohn’s disease.
Appendicitis is not hereditary and does not spread from one person to another.
What tests
are performed to diagnose Appendicitis?
First, the doctor will take a detailed medical history,
ascertain the symptoms and examine the abdomen for tenderness, swelling or
rigidity. Some of the tests that are performed to obtain a more detailed and
accurate diagnosis are:
- Complete Blood Count: A sample of the blood is collected and analysed in the lab to check for signs of infection.
- Scanning and Ultrasound: An abdominal X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans are some of the imaging tests that may be performed to confirm the causes of appendicitis.
- Urine test: This is done to rule out urinary tract infection or kidney stones as probable causes of this disease.
- Pelvic exam: In women, the symptoms may be caused due to ovarian cyst, pelvic inflammatory disease or other conditions affecting the reproductive organs.
There are no home remedies available to treat this
disease. The best and most effective treatment is Appendectomy, which is a
surgical removal of the appendix. A minimally invasive method involving small
keyhole incisions is employed to minimize the loss of blood and aid faster
recovery process. This procedure is done before the appendix ruptures.
If the appendix has already burst, then a needle
drainage is done to drain the abscess in order control the infection. Following
this process, appendectomy is performed.
Some of the other treatment options include
antibiotics, following a liquid diet and taking pain relievers to alleviate the
pain and discomfort in the abdomen.
How to prevent appendicitis?
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent the
occurrence of this condition. But, following a healthy diet rich in fibre, such
as fresh fruits and vegetables, can make it less likely for a person to be
affected by appendicitis.
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