In recent years, the increasing number of cases of appendicitis among young people has become a concern for healthcare professionals. While this condition can affect anyone, clinical data shows that adolescents and young adults are the most common age group to experience this condition. Many factors contribute, including diet and lifestyle, and a lack of awareness about the early symptoms of appendicitis.
People often think of appendicitis as a sudden disease, even though in many cases, there are early, recognizable signs. Unfortunately, a lack of health education means many people don't seek medical attention until their symptoms are already severe, increasing the risk of complications.
What is Appendicitis?
The appendix is a small, tube-shaped organ attached to the large intestine, located in the lower right side of the abdomen. Its function is not fully understood, but anatomically, the appendix contains lymphoid tissue that plays a role in the immune system, particularly in children.
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed, usually due to obstruction by hard stool (fecalith), tissue swelling, or bacterial infection. If left untreated, the inflammation can cause the appendix to rupture, which is dangerous because it can trigger a full-blown infection of the abdominal cavity (peritonitis).
Why is Gen Z more susceptible to appendicitis?
Some factors that make Gen Z more at risk of experiencing appendicitis include:
1. Low fiber diet
Modern lifestyles lead many young people to consume more fast food, fried foods, sugary drinks, and processed foods. Low fiber intake can lead to constipation, which increases the risk of appendicitis.
2. The habit of delaying defecation
Busy schedules and the habit of playing with gadgets cause some people to delay bowel movements. This habit can trigger digestive problems, harden stools, and block the appendix.
3. Lack of physical activity
A sedentary lifestyle or sitting a lot and not moving enough can inhibit intestinal peristalsis, thereby increasing the risk of constipation.
4. Lack of drinking water
Mild dehydration that is often ignored makes the digestive process less than optimal, and stools become harder.
Symptoms of Appendicitis to Watch Out For
Recognizing the early symptoms of appendicitis is crucial to preventing complications. Some common symptoms include:
- Stomach pain that is initially felt around the navel, then moves to the lower right side of the stomach.
- Pain that worsens when moving, coughing, or walking.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Loss of appetite.
- Mild fever.
- Bloating or difficulty passing gas.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
If these symptoms appear, you should immediately seek medical attention. Delaying examination can have fatal consequences.
Appendicitis Prevention
Although not all cases of appendicitis can be prevented, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Increase fiber consumption
Eating fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds every day helps improve digestion and prevent constipation. - Drink enough water
At least 8 glasses per day to keep stool moist and facilitate the bowel movement process. - Avoid the habit of holding in bowel movements
Go to the toilet immediately when your body signals that you need to defecate. - Actively moving
Do light exercise such as walking, cycling, or gymnastics for at least 30 minutes every day. - Reduce processed and fast foods
Choose fresh foods with minimal preservatives to maintain gut health.
Appendicitis Treatment
If a diagnosis of appendicitis has been confirmed, the doctor will usually recommend surgery to remove the appendix (appendectomy). There are two common surgical methods:
- Open surgery: An incision is made in the lower right abdomen to remove the appendix.
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure with several small incisions, using a camera and special instruments.
Maintaining gut health isn't just about avoiding disease, but also about creating a better quality of life. So, starting now, let's adopt a healthy lifestyle to avoid appendicitis and other digestive problems.
This article was written by Dr. Meky Tanjung, Sp.B – FinaCS (General Surgery Specialist at EMC Cikarang & Pulomas Hospital).