Despite the unknown function of the appendix, it is still believed by scientists that it serves a relevant purpose.
There are various interesting and extraordinary things hidden beneath our seemingly ordinary and dull skin.
From the source of life, to our elaborate waste management system, we hardly ever put much thought into them until something goes wrong.
What about those body parts which are often neglected or have no real purpose, such as the appendix?
In this article, we will explore the definition of the appendix, and whether it has a role to play in the modern body.
Location of the Appendix
The appendix is an organ situated in the lower right of the abdomen.
It is located between the small and large intestine, also known as the cecum and ilium.
The length of the appendix is approximately 3.9 inches (10 cm).
Function of the Appendix
The actual purpose of the appendix is unknown; some people believe that it is an organ from the past, where it was responsible for processing raw and hazardous foods.
Nevertheless, scientists argue that it still serves a relevant purpose.
They claim that it functions as a source of “good bacteria,” which remains dormant until a severe illness strikes and kills all the good bacteria in the body.
These illnesses include cholera and diarrhea, enabling quicker recovery, but it is becoming less and less necessary as we evolve as a species.
The more impressive and significant role of the appendix is during early development.
The appendix acts as a storage unit for endocrine cells, which are responsible for a variety of tasks during fetal development and are a crucial element of our early life.
Among other things, these cells’ primary function is to produce certain hormones.
Is the Appendix Necessary?
If there are any problems with this organ, the appendix can be surgically removed without any noticeable side effects.
We all probably know someone who has had it removed.
The surgery is typically required for a range of conditions and illnesses, with appendicitis being the most common.
It is a relatively routine procedure.
If the symptoms are missed and not detected in time, they can cause severe problems for the patient.
This includes the spread of infection to other parts of the abdomen, as the organ can burst.
Fun Fact…
The Koala bear has a particularly remarkable appendix, which is often compared to the human appendix, despite technically being called the cecum.
It is around 6.6 ft (2 meters) long, making it one of the longest in the world.
The primary purpose of the cecum is to break down the tough Australian leaves that the Koala mainly feeds on.
What is the Longest Human Appendix?
A 72-year-old patient in Croatia managed to conceal the fact that he had a massive 10.2-inch-long appendix.
After the death of a patient, surgeons discovered the appendix in 2006. The first written record of appendicitis dates back to 30 A.D. and was documented by Aretaeus of Cappadocia. Aretaeus drained an abscess from a patient’s appendix, but didn’t identify the organ. It wasn’t until the 1400s that the appendix was properly documented during a lawful dissection. Despite being the butt of jokes about useless body parts, the appendix may actually have a purpose. However, those in the know believe that the risks of removal outweigh the gains. It’s important to remember that everything in our bodies serves a purpose, from our nails to our hearts.
FAQ
1. What is the appendix?
The appendix is a small, tube-like organ located in the lower right side of the abdomen. It is attached to the large intestine and is about 3-4 inches long. The appendix is a vestigial organ, which means it no longer serves a necessary function for humans.
2. Why do we have an appendix?
Scientists are not entirely sure why we have an appendix, but there are a few theories. One theory is that it may have played a role in the digestion of cellulose, which is found in plant-based foods. Another theory is that it may have acted as a reservoir for beneficial gut bacteria, helping to repopulate the intestine with good bacteria after an illness.
3. What happens if the appendix becomes infected?
If the appendix becomes infected, it can lead to a condition called appendicitis. Symptoms of appendicitis include pain in the lower right side of the abdomen, fever, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, the appendix can burst, causing infection to spread throughout the abdomen and potentially leading to a life-threatening condition called peritonitis.
4. How is appendicitis treated?
The most common treatment for appendicitis is surgery to remove the appendix, called an appendectomy. This is typically done as an emergency procedure if the appendix has burst or is at risk of bursting. If caught early, antibiotics may be used to treat the infection and prevent the need for surgery.
5. Can you live without your appendix?
Yes, you can live without your appendix. The appendix is not a vital organ, and removing it does not have any long-term health effects. However, if the appendix bursts, it can lead to serious complications and even death if left untreated.
6. Is there anything you can do to prevent appendicitis?
There is no surefire way to prevent appendicitis, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. Eating a diet rich in fiber and staying hydrated can help keep your digestive system healthy. It is also important to seek prompt medical attention if you experience symptoms of appendicitis, as early treatment can help prevent complications.
Zayn Anderson is a prolific writer with a passion for uncovering the world’s intriguing facts. Armed with an insatiable curiosity, he delves into various subjects, from history and science to nature and technology.