Understanding important facts about appendix

The appendix is a fingerlike pouch that sits at the junction of the large intestine and small intestine and is located in the lower right area of the abdomen. The function of the appendix is not known yet, however, according to one theory, it acts as a storehouse for good bacteria, that helps reboot the digestive system after diarrheal illnesss. While some experts are of the opinion that appendix is just a useless remnant and removing it does not appear to affect a person's health. The inside of the appendix is known as appendiceal lumen. Mucus created by the appendix travels through the appendiceal lumen and empties into the large intestine. Conditions associated with appendix include appendicitis and tumours of the appendix. Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed, infected, and may even rupture causing severe pain in the right lower part of the belly which often followed by nausea and vomiting. Although appendix tumours are rare, but there are two types of tumours of the appendix which include carcinoid tumours which secrete chemicals that cause flushing, wheezing and diarrhea and epithelial tumours which grow in the appendix that can be benign or cancerous. So, how does one know if he/she has appendicitis? Well, if you notice the following signs which include slight plain near the naval or the upper abdomen, loss of appetite, feeling nauseous; vomiting soon after abdominal pain begins fever of 99-102 degrees Fahrenheit, not able to pass gas, know that you probably have appendicitis and needs to go for a checkup. Once you notice the symptoms, it is important to get timely diagnosis done so that you can get proper treatment. Watch Dr. Lalit Kumar Kurry explain everything about appendix in this video.