Appendicitis is a common condition affecting adolescents and adults. In severe cases, appendicitis may require the removal of the appendix. What exactly is the function of the appendix, and how can we maintain its health?

Functions of the appendix

The appendix is a small, finger-like organ about 10 cm long that connects to the beginning of the large intestine. It hangs down in the lower right abdomen, between the small and large intestines.

The appendix is often considered an unimportant organ because it plays no role in the digestive system. Experts previously believed that the appendix was a residual organ with no significant digestive function. Historically, mammals were herbivores, and this organ was thought to be part of the digestive tract that aids in food digestion. However, as time passed and mammals began to consume more easily digestible plant materials, this extra organ shrank and evolved into the appendix.

However, recent research has challenged this notion, revealing several benefits of the appendix. Some of these include:

Part of the immune system

Modern studies show that the human appendix contains lymphoid cells, which help the body fight infections. This indicates that the appendix plays a role in the immune system.

The appendix is known to participate in the mucosal immune function of mammals. This tissue helps combat infections within the body and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that aid in digestion and immune health.

Produces and stores beneficial microbes

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found that the appendix has a primary function: producing and storing beneficial microbes for the human gut. Beneficial microbes are often flushed out of the body during illnesses like dysentery or cholera, which disrupt the digestive system.

The appendix contains a biofilm, a thin layer composed of mucus, microbes, and immune cells. This biofilm layer allows beneficial gut bacteria to take refuge in the appendix while the immune system fights infections in the digestive tract. After the infection has cleared, the bacteria from the biofilm re-emerge in the gut lining and multiply, helping restore bacterial balance.

How to maintain appendix health

Although the appendix may seem insignificant, health issues related to it require serious attention, including surgery. Some conditions affecting the appendix include:

• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix. If not treated properly, appendicitis can lead to a ruptured appendix.
• Appendiceal Tumors: Abnormal tissue growths, either benign or malignant, in the appendix area.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a fiber-rich diet, to keep your appendix healthy. Increased fruit and vegetable consumption, as well as drinking plenty of water, can help lower the risk of appendix problems.

Aside from monitoring food intake, regular exercise can also indirectly help with appendix health. Exercise improves digestive system function and increases immune resilience. Good hygiene also helps to prevent diseases and digestive issues.

The appendix is a small organ with roles in digestion and the immune system. If you experience symptoms related to the appendix, see a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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