In appendicitis, the appendix of the intestine, known as the cecum, becomes inflamed. Irritation or inflammation of the appendix is characterised by severe pain in the stomach and right side of the abdomen. The inflammation can often be cured with medication; in severe cases, however, surgery is required. If the inflammation is not treated, the appendix can burst.

 

As it is sometimes difficult to recognise appendicitis at an early stage, it makes sense to take preventative measures and stop the inflammation from developing in the first place.

Appendicitis is usually caused by an infection in the digestive tract. Other possible causes are faecal deposits that block the appendix.

Typical symptoms of appendicitis are severe pain around the navel area, which extends into the abdomen on the right side. This is accompanied by vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, fever and frequent, painful urination. The pain occurs mainly when changing posture, sneezing and coughing or palpation of the abdominal area.

Prevention of appendicitis

A balanced diet is the basis of prevention. Food that is difficult to digest gets stuck in the appendix more easily and rots there. Food should contain a lot of fibre and you should drink plenty of fluids. This simplifies and speeds up the digestion of food.
Fresh fruit and vegetables should be eaten daily. Carrot juice, cucumber and beetroot are particularly beneficial.
Wholemeal products should replace white flour products. 

Pulses have a positive effect on digestion and inhibit irritation of the appendix.
Meals should not be overly flavoured. Excessive seasoning favours an infection in the intestinal tract.
Herbal tea made from blackberry leaves can be drunk regularly once or twice a day. The blackberry leaves have an anti-inflammatory effect and help to flush out the bowel.

If appendicitis is suspected and there are no severe symptoms, a blood or urine test or an ultrasound scan can be carried out.

There is no absolutely safe way to prevent appendicitis, but the above tips will significantly reduce the likelihood.