APPENDIX
The appendix is a wormlike appendage at the
junction of small and large intestines. Its reason for existence is not clear.
The apparently useless structure, unfortunately, can be the source of serious
illness. No age group is immune to appendicitis, an inflammation of the
appendix (page 531). Its prompt diagnosis can lead to effective removal of the
inflamed organ before serious complications can occur.
The operation is
comparatively simple and safe when performed early by a competent surgeon. The
one thing you can do about your appendix is to realize that if it is inflamed,
you may cause it to rupture if you take a laxative or apply a hot water bottle
over it.
Unlike the chest with its rib cage, the abdomen offers relatively little protection for its organs. Liver, spleen, and kidneys may be ruptured by accidental injuries. The abdominal muscles should be kept strong to help protect adjacent organs, a need recognized by all coaches of athletic teams. Disorders of the gastrointestinal system are among the most commonly encountered in medical practice.
Almost everyone has some degree of difficulty at one time or other. The disorders can be functional. Because of the extensive nerve connections involved in the digestive system, fear, anger, and other nervous upsets can readily set off attacks of nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
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