What is Appendix?
The appendix is a 3.5 inch long, narrow tube of tissues which is close-ended and has a worm-like appearance. It extends from the large intestine. In fact, it attaches to the first part of the colon i.e. cecum. The vermiform appendix is known to be the anatomical name of the appendix, and it signifies worm-like appearance.
Whether the appendix has a crucial role in the body functions or not is not yet clear. Some studies state that, in children, the appendix may have a role of immune function or gut immunity. However, nothing is definite. The removal of appendix does not cause any major, chronic health issues, even though a little aggravation in some ailments is observed, such as Crohn’s disease.
What is Appendicitis?
Inflammation of the appendix is known as appendicitis. As a matter of fact, acute appendicitis is known to be a medical emergency which needs a surgical procedure promptly to remove the inflamed appendix from the body. If appendicitis is left untreated, this inflamed appendix would eventually burst or perforate by spilling out the infectious matter into the cavity of the abdomen. As a result, it can cause peritonitis, which is a very serious condition occurring due to the inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity (i.e. peritoneum), which can be fatal if it’s not treated immediately with strong antibiotics.
Causes of Appendicitis:
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix of the individual gets blocked by the hard-fecal matter (i.e. stool), a foreign body, undigested food, or, in rare cases, a tumor. As it gets blocked, inflammation of the appendix occurs due to the resulting swelling and ulceration of the lining of the mucous membrane and ultimately leads to appendicitis. If such a blockage of appendix continues, bacteria infect the inflamed tissue and it begins to die due to a poor supply of blood. Finally, it leads to the rupture of the appendix (ruptured or perforated appendix).
Besides this, infection occurring in the gut or any other body part too may cause the inflammation of the appendix and lead to appendicitis.
Common Symptoms of Appendicitis:
There are some common symptoms which tell you the presence of appendicitis. Find them listed below.
- The most common & initial symptom is the pain in the lower abdomen
- Pain begins in the middle of the abdomen “belly button” (umbilicus)
- The pain slowly moves in the next 24 hours to the right lower abdomen (toward the right iliac fossa)
- Pain is unlike any pain felt before
- Pain is worse on motion, taking a deep breath, coughing, and sneezing
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Inability to pass gas
- Low-grade fever
- Feeling that passing stool will relieve discomfort
- Abdominal swelling
Common Signs of Appendicitis:
On examination, the doctor can figure out the tenderness in the right iliac fossa.
The rebound tenderness may occur; it is the discomforting pain which turns worse when the examining doctor releases his or her hand quickly after pressing the tender area of the abdomen gently.
Also Read: Complications of Appendicitis
Homeopathic Management of Appendicitis:
Usually, homeopathy is recommended in the early stages. However, acute appendicitis may need a surgical intervention where the scope of homeopathy is limited.
Homeopathy is rather indicated in chronic and recurrent appendicitis. Homeopathic medicines may help in obtaining a complete recovery and strengthening the immunity of the affected individual.
So, count on homeopathy without a second thought for a complete recovery from appendicitis and an increase in immunity. Obtain a great relief and recovery with homeopathy effectively without any side-effects.
– Written by Dr. Amrita, Associate doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah
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