Health 411 - A Conversation About Appendicitis

The appendix is a small organ connected to the large intestine that, for many years, was believed to be a "useless" organ. However, research now suggests that the appendix may play a role in maintaining the body's microbiome and supporting certain immune functions. In some cases, the appendix can become inflamed, resulting in appendicitis; a condition that can become life-threatening if left untreated.In today's episode of Health 411, Dr. Jonathan Karp and student producers Dan Loges and Jake Rodriguez discuss the appendix and appendicitis, using Dan's personal experience with appendicitis as a starting point for the conversation. They also explore appendectomy surgery, how removing the appendix affects the body, and whether it is something people should be concerned about.Tune in to this week's episode of Health 411 to learn more about the appendix, why it may be more important than once believed, and the signs and symptoms of appendicitis that everyone should know.