There was probably a time you’ve experienced a lashing pain at the lower right section of your abdomen and mistake it for just another stomach problem.
However, the pain starts becoming persistent to a point where it’s making you bowl over in agony. The pain you’re feeling could probably be a symptom of appendicitis.
Defining Appendicitis
Anatomically, our appendix does not possess specific major functions in our body. However, when it is inflamed or swelling, it can cause a lot of problems. Our appendix is characterized by a small, worm-shaped finger pouch that is connected to the colon or intestines.
When the appendix becomes inflamed, the painful condition is known as appendicitis. In most cases, the pain felt with appendicitis usually starts at the navel area and then moves to other areas of the body. When the condition worsens, the pain will elevate before becoming severe.
How does appendicitis occur?
Appendicitis is usually associated with the immune system’s influence on the body’s ability to ward off infection and bacteria. The infection that causes appendicitis could probably be from a stomach infection that shifts to the appendix. It could also be caused by a piece of solid stool that becomes lodged near the appendix creating an infection.
Other causes that contribute to appendicitis also includes:
– Swelling of lymph nodes resulting in an infection
– The growth of parasites in the appendix
How is appendicitis identified?
There’s still a lot of scientific debate as to the specific symptoms of appendicitis just like the function of the appendix. Appendicitis can generally happen to anyone anytime. However, the most common age group reported with the condition is between 10 to 30 years old. In recent years, over a quarter of the population in the United States have been diagnosed with appendicitis.
Pain is the common sign of appendicitis that later becomes more defined as the condition escalates. The pain would usually occur around the area near the abdomen.
Other symptoms would include:
– Pain that worsens as it progresses
– Feelings of nausea and dizziness
– Pain when sneezing or coughing
– Diarrhea
– Not able to pass gas
– Loss of appetite
– Slight fever
How can appendicitis be treated naturally?
Although the most effective form of treatment for appendicitis is removal by surgery, there are natural methods to follow in reducing symptoms. However, it is important to consult beforehand with your doctor about your diagnosis and if natural treatments are effective for you.
Preventing appendicitis from getting worse would also depend on a change in lifestyle habits. These habits include:
- Make sure to have a diet that is plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Drink ample amounts of water every day, at least ten to twelve glasses would be ideal
- Amp up juices by adding in plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Consuming sufficient amounts of probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and buttermilk to improve bowel movement and relieve pain and inflammation
Below are seven top home treatments to help reduce pain and inflammation caused by appendicitis:
- Castor Oil
This type of oil is a known remedy to help relieve constipation. It is important that when a person suffers from appendicitis, constipation should be avoided. This is because constipation can make the inflammation worse in the appendix. Castor oil can also help in improving bowel movement.
To use, pour two tablespoons of castor oil a folded piece of flannel cloth. Lie down and place the flannel cloth on your abdomen. Repeat this at least thrice weekly for about two or three months.
- Ginger
Ginger is an herb that is rich in antioxidant properties. It can help in reducing pain and inflammation as well as relieve feelings of nausea and vomit.
You can do this by drinking ginger tea every day two or three times. Just grate a piece of ginger, put them in a cup of boiling water and let it simmer for a few minutes. You can also use ginger oil and massage your lower abdomen for effective relief.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is another age-old remedy that can help reduce pain and inflammation. Its active property, curcumin, is known to improve the immune system and its response to fight off bacteria. Turmeric is also known to help relieve gastric pains.
Add turmeric into your ginger tea for faster relief from the pain and inflammation.
- Lemon Juice and Raw Honey
Lemon juice and raw honey are a great combination when it comes to improving bowel movements and relieving constipation and nausea. Just mix both ingredients and drink it straight. If you find the taste of the solution too strong, add a little warm water in it. The ideal time to drink this solution is in the morning an hour before taking your meals.
- Mint
The benefit of taking mint as a natural remedy for appendicitis is its cooling and soothing effect. It can also maintain healthy digestion and helps in releasing gas.
- Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds are another natural remedy you can use to help relieve the symptoms of appendicitis. This is because of their ability to protect the gastrointestinal system and helps reduce swelling of the appendix.
To use, just put fenugreek seeds in two cups of boiling water and strain. Drink the concoction once a day.
This is a Chinese herb believed to be a remedy with healing properties. It goes with the scientific name Centella Asiatica and can usually be found in herbal stores. This herb is rich in antioxidant properties to speed up healing and lessen pain.
Just add one teaspoon of this herb with hot water and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Strain and drink the remaining beverage. Drink the beverage at least two or three times a day for effective results and fast relief.
It is necessary to take note that these natural remedies prevent appendicitis from developing to its later stages. Make sure to schedule a doctor’s appointment immediately, if you feel that the symptoms are getting worse.
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