For decades, the human appendix was casually dismissed as a “useless” vestige. Modern research and clinical experience, however, suggest that this small, narrow pouch, attached to the cecum in the ...

It was the first day of spring break in 1992 in Phoenix, and 12-year-old Heather Smith was excited for her family's upcoming ski trip. But before Smith and her family had even packed their snow pants, ...

Untreated appendicitis may cause your appendix to rupture (burst), resulting in an infection. Symptoms associated with a ruptured appendix include severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, and weakness.

(CNN) — Surgery to remove the appendix, called appendectomy, is the go-to treatment for patients with appendicitis and is one of the most common surgical procedures in the U.S. However, antibiotic ...

Appendicitis typically causes pain that starts on the lower right side of your abdomen while gas pain can occur all over. With appendicitis, you may also develop other symptoms, including fever. A ...

For years, the appendix was brushed off as a useless leftover from human evolution. Many of us grew up believing that it served no real purpose and was better off removed at the first sign of trouble.

You may have heard that astronauts have their appendix removed before leaving Earth. After all, people say you can live without this organ because it serves no purpose, but how much truth is there in ...

Appendicitis is a potentially serious condition that occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and infected. While the small organ tucked in the lower right abdomen often goes unnoticed, problems can ...

Appendicitis is a disease caused by a blockage or inflammation in the appendix organ. If left untreated, the appendix can rupture inside of a person's body and be life-threatening. Severe pain in the ...