Is Colon Hydrotherapy Safe for People Suffering from Appendicitis?

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix which can prove to be potentially lethal if not dealt with accordingly. The appendix is a worm-like tube that projects out from the colon. This tube can be up to several inches in length, typically found on the lower right side of the abdomen. The real purpose of the appendix has not been exactly defined. However, Loren G. Martin, a physiology professor from Oklahoma State University claims that the appendix might actually be relevant to the immune system.
The professor cited the appendix of an eleven-week fetus contains endocrine cells which produce hormones and compounds that aids homeostatic mechanisms. The professor further states that lymphoid tissue starts to accumulate in the appendix immediately after birth although it diminishes after the age of 60. The appendix is said to function as a lymphoid organ during the early years of development. It is said to contribute in the synthesis of molecules that help distribute lymphocytes to various areas of the body.

Additionally, William Parker, Randy Bollinger, and colleagues from Duke University proposed that the appendix is a haven or even a cultivation center for good bacteria essential to all body organs. They claim that they have found masses of bacteria that growing in the inner lining of the appendix.

However, since time immemorial, there have been numerous cases in which appendixes have been removed. Yet the lack of appendix did not pose any adverse effect on any one person. Thus, the verification of the exact function of the appendix has constantly evaded scientists. But despite that, the appendix is one thing that should not be neglected. The appendix can get infected and be filled with pus that could eventually lead to death if not treated.

The exact causes of appendicitis, much like the specific function of an appendix are still yet to be determined. However, one common factor which often leads to appendicitis is the blockage of the opening that runs the entire length of the appendix by fecal stones. Also, gastrointestinal infections or other types of inflammation may lead to appendicitis. Treatment for severe cases of the condition will require surgical removal of the appendix. Disregarding the symptoms of the condition may ultimately lead to the perforation or rupture of the appendix and consequently, cause an infection of the lining of the abdominal cavity or peritonitis.

Symptoms of appendicitis include shifting pain between the naval and lower right abdomen, abdominal tenderness, fever, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, abdominal swelling, diarrhea, and inability to pass gas. Thus, one having the above mentioned symptoms must consider the following diagnostic procedures: white blood cell count, urine test, barium enema, abdominal x-ray, CT scan, ultrasonography, and laparoscopy.

With the growing popularity of colon hydrotherapy as a naturopathic treatment for various ailments, especially those linked to the digestive system, many people are likely to believe that the said treatment is a cure all for these illnesses. This treatment alongside any other detoxification therapies must be done after thorough health diagnosis. Most especially, these treatments must be performed by or with the guidance of trained health professionals to avoid adverse effects.

Now, one might ask if colon hydrotherapy can be performed to patients suffering from appendicitis in the hope to alleviate the symptoms. The answer is no. Advocates including Mark Groven, a naturopathic physician and medical supervisor at the Bastyr University, Seattle, emphasizes that people with certain medical conditions such as appendicitis, hepatitis, ulcerative colitis, and several others should not go through such procedure.

However, it should also be stressed that for those people who are not under any serious medical may undergo colonic irrigation or perform fasting to help them improve their overall health and well-being.

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