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- What is appendicitis?
- Symptoms of appendicitis
- Causes of appendicitis
- Prevention of appendicitis
- Risk factors for appendicitis
- Complications of appendicitis
- When to see a doctor about appendicitis
- Diagnosis of appendicitis
- Conventional treatment of appendicitis
- Alternative/complementary treatment of appendicitis
- Living with appendicitis
- Caring for someone with appendicitis
Appendicitis is due to inflammation and infection of the appendix, which, as a result, becomes swollen and can rupture (burst).
Appendicitis should never be treated lightly, as a severe infection and possible rupturing of the appendix can inflame and infect the whole of the abdominal wall (peritonitis) and have very serious and life-threatening consequences.
The appendix is a small, tubular appendage that is about 9cm which is attached at the cecum, the start of the colon (large intestine).
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Some facts about appendicitis
- The appendix is part of the lymphatic system and contains lymphatic tissue
- During adolescence, the appendix has an important role in maturing B cells, the white blood cells which are also known as lymphocytes and also in producing the antibody immunoglobulin A (IgA)
- In the unborn foetus, the appendix contains endocrine cells that make hormones and other substances necessary for development
- Appendicitis mostly occurs in children and young adults aged between 10 - 30 years
- Appendicitis is rare in young children, especially in those under 2 years
- Appendicitis is the most common emergency abdominal surgery for children and younger adults
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2: symptoms of appendicitis > Last reviewed: 2 October 2009 || Last updated: 3 October 2009
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NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
