Symptoms of Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a medical condition in which the appendix, a small finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine, becomes inflamed and infected. Symptoms of appendicitis include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Left untreated, appendicitis can become life-threatening.
Factors that Increase Risk of Appendicitis
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing appendicitis, including a family history of the condition, a previous history of appendicitis, and certain chronic medical conditions. In addition, certain dietary and lifestyle choices can increase the risk of developing appendicitis.
Dietary Factors
Eating a diet high in processed and refined foods can increase the risk of developing appendicitis. Eating a diet high in fiber, specifically insoluble fiber, can also increase the risk of appendicitis. Additionally, eating foods that are high in fat can increase the risk of appendicitis.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle choices can increase the risk of appendicitis. People who engage in high-risk activities, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and using recreational drugs, can increase their risk of developing appendicitis. Additionally, people who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop appendicitis.
Treatment of Appendicitis
Treatment of appendicitis typically involves the removal of the appendix. This can be done through either an open surgery or laparoscopic surgery. In some cases, antibiotics can be used to treat appendicitis, but this is generally only an option for mild cases.