Overview
Appendicitis occurs due to the inflammation of the appendix. It causes severe abdominal pain along with other symptoms like loss of appetite, nausea, indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea.
The condition is more common in the age group of 10 to 30 years and rarely occurs in children below the age of two.
Appendicitis occurs at different stages. Acute appendicitis occurs when the pain is severe and unmanageable. It worsens quickly and spreads to the entire abdomen. The condition needs immediate treatment and can be life-threatening if the appendix ruptures.
Chronic appendicitis is rare and you may feel a mild and dull pain near the belly button or the lower side of the abdomen. It occurs when the appendix is obstructed and inflamed due to fecal deposits. Since there are no other major symptoms, other than a dull pain that comes and goes or mild fatigue, the condition is difficult to diagnose.
Is surgery really necessary for appendicitis?
An early diagnosis and pre-operative medications can control the symptoms and can help in delaying the surgery.
Once you show the symptoms of appendicitis, it is only a matter of time before the appendix becomes sore and gets inflamed or infected. There is a high risk that the appendix may perforate and rupture within a period of 48 to 72 hours which is life-threatening.
Appendectomy or surgical removal of the appendix is the standard treatment for appendicitis and is mostly done as an emergency procedure.
Studies have shown that in the case of uncomplicated appendicitis, the doctor may start with antibiotics as an alternative treatment for managing the symptoms but later move to appendectomy as the symptoms progress.
Precautions to reduce the risks of appendicitis
Though there are no ways to prevent appendicitis, lifestyle changes, or a healthy diet may reduce the risks of developing the disease or delay the process.
A healthy fiber-rich diet
One of the key reasons for developing appendicitis is constipation where the appendix is obstructed by hard fecal matter. A high-fiber diet reduces the likelihood of appendix blockages. Include fresh fruits, leafy vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and apples, in your diet. Adequate fiber intake helps in the easy passing of the stools and cleans the bowel system.
Hydration
Drinking less water creates constipation. Increase the intake of water and fluids to flush out toxins and wastes from the body. Consume more water during hot weather or after physical exertion.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise keeps the body fit, promotes digestion, and improves blood circulation. Digestive disorders are known to cause appendicitis. Some exercises or yoga postures aid digestion and promote easy bowel movements. Exercises also boost your immune system.
Manage stress levels
Stress can induce indigestion and other digestive problems. Breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation relaxes the mind and the body and reduces stress and anxiety. A brief 30-minute walk every day outdoors also helps to relieve stress.
Good hygiene
Maintain a good hygiene. Wash your hands properly before meals, in the shower, and after using the washroom. Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly through running water before consuming them. Avoid eating expired foods that can cause digestive problems or food poisoning. Bacteria can lead to gastrointestinal infections and trigger appendicitis.
Take care of your abdominal health
Be mindful of what you eat as it impacts your abdominal health. Avoid fatty and spicy foods that are difficult to digest. Quit smoking or drinking excessive alcohol as it weakens the body’s immune system to fight infections and impairs the proper functioning of the digestive system.
Pay attention to your body
Be vigilant of your health. If you are experiencing some mild symptoms of abdominal pain or nausea, contact your physician immediately and get your symptoms diagnosed. An early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risks of developing serious complications.
Stop your suffering NOW
Don't just jump into a surgery because your doctor is advising you to go for it. Consult our doctors to know if you need a surgery at all. Rest assured, we WON'T recommend you surgery unless it's the last resort.
