Have you ever wondered what is the function of the tiny appendix in the body? Some people consider it a useless organ, but do you know that this very organ can sometimes become a big problem for your health? If the appendix becomes inflamed or infected, it can prove fatal. Know what appendicitis is and why the ‘extra’ organ can be fatal if not treated on time. Click here to read completely!
Appendix: There are many organs in our body, whose functions we do not fully understand, but they play an important role in the normal functioning of our body. there is such an organ appendix (Appendix), which is sometimes considered a ‘superfluous part of the body’. But do you know that this small organ can sometimes become a big problem for your health?
What is Appendix?
The appendix is a small part of the body’s digestive system, usually located near the large intestine. It is about the size of a small finger and according to scientists, it does not have any significant contribution in the digestive process. Therefore it is often seen as a ‘redundant organ’. However, this organ can get affected in certain conditions in our body, which can cause some health problems.
Appendicitis: When the appendix becomes dangerous
If the appendix becomes swollen then it is called ‘appendicitis’. Appendicitis occurs when the appendix gets infected and starts swelling. Due to this swelling, a person may have severe stomach pain, fever, vomiting and gas problems. If not treated in time, the swollen appendix can burst, causing the infection to spread throughout the body and can also be fatal.
Why is the appendix considered a redundant organ?
The question always arises as to why the appendix is considered a ‘redundant organ’, whereas it must have been placed in the body for some purpose. For many years, scientists believed that the appendix had no important function in the body. But now some research has revealed that the appendix may have some special functions, especially in maintaining the health of our intestines. However, this work is not so big that it is considered as essential as other parts of the body.
Some researchers believe that the appendix works to protect the bacteria in our digestive system, which are essential for the good health of our intestines. When the number of bacteria in the intestines decreases (such as due to disease), the appendix works to send the bacteria back into the intestines, thereby maintaining normal intestinal function.
Prevention and treatment of appendix disease
If you suddenly feel severe pain in the stomach, especially around the navel, it can be a symptom of appendicitis. In this situation you should immediately contact the doctor. Generally, ‘Appendectomy’ is the most common method of treatment. This is a simple surgery, in which the appendix is removed from the body. Nowadays, this surgery is done with laparoscopic technique, due to which the patient recovers quickly and spends less time in the hospital.
Why is this important?
Every organ in our body has some function, but some organs like the appendix, whose function is not clear, can confuse us. Although the appendix is considered a ‘redundant organ’, sometimes it can cause inflammation or infection in the body. Therefore, it is important for us to know about it so that any problem related to it can be dealt with.
Appendix may be considered a ‘redundant part’ of the body, but this organ can cause problems at any time. Infection and inflammation of this organ can be identified and treated in time, thereby avoiding serious health problems. All parts of the body have some purpose, even if it is not obvious to us. Therefore, if ever there is swelling or infection in the appendix, do not panic, consult a doctor and get treatment as soon as possible.
