Does tomato seeds cause appendicitis?
In your childhood, you must have been told to avoid eating tomato seed, chia seed and also guava seed because they cause the inflammation of the appendix known as appendicitis.
TRUTH: SWALLOWING TOMATO SEEDS DOES NOT CAUSE APPENDICITIS….IT IS A MYTH THAT HAS FESTERED FOR TOO LONG…SAME WAY GUAVA SEED AND CHIA SEEDS DOESN’T CAUSE APPENDICITIS….
The saying that tomato seed blocks the appendix lumen to trigger an inflammatory reaction leading to appendicitis is not found in science or any research.
What then causes appendicitis?
A blockage in the lining of the appendix that results in infection is the likely cause of appendicitis. The bacteria multiply rapidly, causing the appendix to become inflamed, swollen and filled with pus. If not treated promptly, the appendix can rupture.
CAUSES OF APPENDICITIS …
Appendicitis occurs due to blockage in the opening at the attachment of appendix with caecum. This blockage may be caused by fecolith, parasite or tumor. A build-up of mucus or stool in the appendix which later on hardens may block the opening. There are instances of swelling of the lymphatic tissue in the appendix that causes the blockage. The wall of the appendix is infected when the bacteria in the appendix multiply due to the blockage. This causes inflammation of the appendix. If the inflammation goes undetected, it may lead to rupturing of the appendix
DIAGNOSIS OF APPENDICITIS…
Physical examination:
Physical examination especially of the abdomen is required to detect the appendix.
Imaging techniques:
Ultrasound and Computed Tomography (CT scan) can help in verifying if the appendix is inflamed, swollen or ruptured. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) can help detect rare tumours of the appendix.
Blood Tests:
The white blood cell count and signs of infection can help diagnose if there is an inflammation of the appendix.
Symptoms of appendicitis
Appendicitis causes a variety of symptoms, including:
🤜abdominal pains
🤜low fever
🤜nausea
🤜vomiting
🤜loss of appetite
🤜constipation
🤜diarrhea
🤜difficulty passing gas
Not all people will have the same symptoms, but it’s crucial that you see a doctor as quickly as possible.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the appendix can rupture (burst) as quickly as 48 to 72 hours after the onset of symptoms. A ruptured appendix can kill because it allows fecal matter to enter the peritoneal cavity .
Go to the hospital immediately if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms.
🤜Abdominal pain
Appendicitis usually involves a gradual onset of dull, cramping, or aching pain throughout the abdomen.
As the appendix becomes more swollen and inflamed, it will irritate the lining of the abdominal wall, known as the peritoneum…..this is known as peritonitis.
The definitive treatment of appendicitis is surgery to remove the inflamed appendix.
Summary: Eating tomato seeds or swallowing tomato seeds cannot cause appendicitis…
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