Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix becomes inflamed, and may or may not be filled with pus causing severe pain. The appendix or vermiform appendix is actually a pouch-like structure that is attached at the beginning of the large intestine.
Appendicitis is caused by infections like viruses, bacteria, or other parasites. Symptoms of appendicitis include pain in the right lower abdomen or pain near the navel, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, fever, and indigestion. People who are more prone to appendicitis are teenagers, individuals with a family history, a sedentary lifestyle, and those whose dietary regime includes junk foods.
How to prevent appendicitis???
- Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Make sure you are drinking enough water every day.
- Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Avoid processed foods high in salt and sugar.
- Maintain optimum weight.
Appendicitis is usually diagnosed by an abdominal X-Ray, abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.
Treatment for appendicitis includes antibiotic medications, and in some cases, surgery is required. The surgical procedure involves the removal of the appendix (appendicectomy). Laparotomy and laparoscopic surgeries are commonly preferred nowadays. Treating appendicitis from the very beginning can prevent further complications, which can be life-threatening.
As technology advances, it usually takes an hour to complete the surgery and the patient can return home within 2 days.