The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch that projects out from the colon on the lower right side of the abdomen
. Its function is not entirely clear, but some scientists and doctors think it may be a place for the body to store certain healthy types of gut bacteria that could be altered or changed during an intestinal illness or with overuse of antibiotics
. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, which can cause pain in the lower right abdomen. Symptoms of appendicitis may include sudden pain that begins on the right side of the lower abdomen, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, constipation or diarrhea, abdominal bloating, and gas
. If not treated right away, the appendix can break open, causing serious complications such as a burst appendix
. The treatment of appendicitis is usually antibiotics and surgery to remove the appendix
