What Is The Function Of Your Appendix?

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7 Answers

Lisa michalski Profile
Lisa michalski answered
It takes and stores the poison that is in our systems,that is why if it ruptures it can kill us,and padraig is right,it is the fluids that are digested here and this is what can kill us if it travels through our bloodstreams.
Richard Walker Profile
Richard Walker answered
The appendix appears to be a residual organ, one that possibly served some purpose in our evolutionary past. It has no know function that relates to survival for modern humans. While it does contain groups of cells that are involved in immune response, these cells are ubiquitous throughout or gastro-intestinal tract.

It does provide a source of infection and inflammation (appendicitis) and then require surgical removal. At least in the past, the appendix was often removed whenever a surgeon operated for any other reason in the vicinity of this organ. This was referred to as an "incidental appendectomy", as the primary purpose did not relate to the appendix. Rather it was incidentally removed to prevent the possibility of problems in the future.

It is possible that at some time in the future we may discover a role for the appendix that we currently have overlooked or do not fully understand. Provided this proves to be a critical role, or at least one that provides some benefit, or benefits, that outweigh the risk for developing appendicitis, we make look upon this curious organ from another perspective.
Niki Zee Profile
Niki Zee answered
Your appendix actually doesn't have a function anymore... It used to a long time ago, It was actually used to process raw meats and roughage, and act as a filter for bacteria in those foods.... But now it doesn't because we eat cooked meats and processed foods, so sometimes the appendix will get infected and swell.....
Brian Reed Profile
Brian Reed answered
As far as medical science can tell it is just a left over from some part of our evolution that has no function
patrick mc mullan Profile
It acts as a reservoir for bacteria useful in the digestive system. In days long gone, it would probably have been useful in breaking down foodstuffs that were popular at the time. If it ruptures it can prove fatal as the material spills into the peritoneal cavity causing peritonitis. It serves no real function nowadays and can be easily removed.
Anonymous Profile
Anonymous answered
It doesn't do anything any more, that's why when it gets infected, it can simply be removed instead of replaced.

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