What is appendicitis?

The appendix is an extension of the cecum, the beginning of the large intestines. It is a small pouch, about 3 or 4 inches long, located on the lower right side of the abdomen, just at the point where the small intestine passes material into the large intestine during digestion. in some prior evolutionary stage , it may have had some purpose, but in modern humans, it has no function.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and fills with pus. It can occur at any age, but is most prevalent between the ages of 15 and 24. It is the most common reason for abdominal surgery in children and adolescents. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and sometimes appendicitis can be mistaken for other medical problems, including various infections, such gynecologic conditions as a ruptured ovarian cyst or an infection of a fallopian tube, or inflammatory bowel disease.

What causes appendicitis?
Appendicitis is most often associated with a blockage or obstruction between the small intestine and colon. Although medical scientist do not fully understand the mechanisms involved, it appears that this obstruction paves the way for the appendix to become contaminated with bacteria, parasites, fecal material or other substances that can lead to inflammation. In the past it was thought that eating certain foods such as nuts or corn could cause appendicitis, but there is no evidence to support this.

Symptoms:

• abdominal pain, generally starting in the upper abdomen and then moving to the lower right portion. Pain is persistent and steady, but may be worsened by movement, sneezing or taking a deep breath.
• nausea and vomiting
• constipation
• mild fever
• feeling of general malaise

What can I do to avoid appendicitis?
There are no specific preventive steps. Some researchers believe that consuming a diet high in fibrous foods--for example, whole grain breads and cereals, and fresh or lightly processed fruits and vegetables- can help prevent appendicitis, but this has not been proved. Nor is there any truth to the old wives belief that eating whole kernel corn, nuts and seeds will cause appendicitis.