Overview

The appendix is a small, tube-like organ located at the junction of the small and large intestines in the human body. While its exact function is not fully understood, it may affect the immune system and gut health. In some cases, it can become inflamed, leading to a condition called appendicitis, which requires surgical removal.

The "mysterious appendix" is not a recognised medical term. The appendix is sometimes called mysterious because its exact function in the human body has not been definitively established. While it may have roles in the immune system and gut health, its precise purpose remains a subject of ongoing research and debate in the medical community.

Purpose and Functions of Appendix

The purpose and functions are many and vital for a healthy digestive system. It is a 4-inch long tube-like organ located below the abdomen. Excess pressure over the organ causes intense pain and causes a high amount of discomfort to the affected individual. Pain may also be a sign of appendicitis. In case of severe situations, the appendix may also be removed with the help of a surgical procedure. The surgery is a safe step as removal of the organ doesn't hamper the digestion procedure harshly.

Purpose of Appendix

Many theories and medical statements state that the appendix is not a vital organ for the human digestive system. However, researchers today do not abide by the old theories and believe that the organ plays a pivotal role in the healthy digestion of any human. Mentioned below are a few functions of the appendix that help define its significance:

- Strengthens Immunity- Researchers have found that the appendix strengthens the immunity in the human body. The organ helps fight infection and protects an individual from the harsh side effects of the infection damaging the human body. The organ has lymphoid cells that help fight infections and their side effects.
- The organ also helps to protect the human body if it detects any form of infection causing harsh damage to the body. The organ also plays a small role in the mammalian mucosal immune function, protecting the human body from harsh infections caused by mucous membrane surfaces.
- Supports Digestion- New theories and studies also state that the appendix supports digestion. It helps to store the good bacteria in the gut that aids digestion. Stomach disorders such as constipation, vomiting, and dysentery lead to the loss of essential bacteria that help digestion. In such cases, the organ releases the stored good bacteria in the appendix for a healthy digestive system, lowering the side effects due to the loss of good bacteria.
- The organ's location at the end of the digestive system helps store good bacteria and release waste not required for the body. Removing the appendix can be a massive loss for the digestive system of the operated individual, as per new studies.

Functions of Appendix

The appendix is considered to be a vestigial organ, and it is assumed by many people that its removal doesn't affect the human body majorly. However, the new studies entirely deny the statement. Mentioned below are some of the functions of the appendix that help to withstand the new theories of researchers:

- Helpful for the Digestive System- Our body is filled with unimaginable good bacteria for a healthy gut. Many of these bacteria are present in the human body's digestive system. Health disorders such as stomach infection, dysentery, vomiting, or constipation may cause loss of good bacteria in huge quantities. It makes the affected individual weak and tired.
- The appendix's function in the digestive system is vital to avoid such situations and provide the required strength. The good bacteria stored in the organ come to use under such circumstances. The organ releases the stored bacteria for healthy digestion and strengthens the digestive system for healthy and smooth functioning.
- Protects Immune System- One of the astonishing and appreciable facts about the immune system is it releases good bacteria immediately if the organ senses any infection damaging the large intestine. The organ helps to lower the side effects caused by bacteria damaging the large intestine. The organ's tissues consist of B-cell lymphocytes and T-cell lymphocytes, usually found in bone marrow and thymus gland, respectively. The organ has a considerable role to play in protecting immunity. The organ also helps to avoid huge diseases before they hamper the organ and its functioning.

Tips for a Healthy Appendix

Mentioned below are some of the tips that help to keep the organ healthy and strong:

- Consume a healthy fibrous diet for passing of easy and painless stool.
- Exercise for a few minutes daily for a healthy digestive system.
- Avoid high consumption of fried, oily, greasy, and spicy food.
- Avoid eating from unhygienic places to avoid any infection affecting the digestion procedure.
- Avoid drinking water from unclean places to avoid health problems such as jaundice or cholera.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Appendix purpose and functions were not defined clearly in the old science. The organ was considered to be a vestigial one. However, modern studies help deny such studies and highlight the importance of the organ and its role.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/unexpected-symptoms-and-things-you-didnt-know-about-appendicitis/
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/appendicitis/guide/appendix/
- https://www.news-medical.net/health/Why-do-Humans-have-an-Appendix.aspx
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-does-the-appendix-do-5270731