The human body is still a subject of mystery for scientists, but there are some strange facts about it that have only recently been discovered. Here are some of the fascinating details you might not have known:
Spleen
The spleen is located on the left side of the abdomen, towards the back under the ribs. It is often removed due to injury to the abdomen, as the spleen is surrounded by a thin capsule that can rupture easily, causing blood to leak from the damaged spleen. If left untreated, this can be fatal. Inside the spleen, there are two prominent colors: dark red and small white pockets. The red part is involved in storing and recycling red blood cells, while the white part stores white blood cells and platelets. The interesting thing is that you can live without a spleen, as the liver helps with recycling red blood cells, and other lymphoid tissues in the body assist in immune function.
Colon (Large Intestine)
The colon is a tube about six feet long and is made up of four parts. Its main functions include reabsorbing water and preparing stool by compacting it. If someone develops cancer or other diseases, part or all of the colon may need to be removed. Most patients recover well after surgery, although they may notice changes in bowel habits. Doctors typically recommend a soft diet initially to aid recovery.
Appendix
The appendix is a small, worm-like structure located where the large intestine meets the small intestine. Initially, it was thought to have no function, but now it's believed that the appendix acts as a "safe haven" for good bacteria in the intestines, allowing them to repopulate when needed. The appendix can become inflamed, leading to appendicitis, which requires surgical removal. However, if not entirely removed, the appendix can become inflamed again, leading to a condition called "appendix stump infection."
Tonsils
Tonsils are part of the lymphatic system, which serves as the body's immune "surveillance," helping to catch harmful invaders such as bacteria and viruses. They are located at the back of the throat on either side of the uvula. Tonsillectomies are recommended only for individuals who suffer from repeated bacterial throat infections, like strep throat. Once removed, other lymphatic tissues, including the lymph nodes, can take over the tonsils' functions.
Uterus
The uterus supports the growth of a fetus during pregnancy. Did you know that the uterus can be removed without compromising overall health? Common reasons for a hysterectomy include painful or excessive menstruation, fibroids (benign tumors), or cancer.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are technically meant for chewing food but are often considered unnecessary. About 22% of people worldwide have at least one wisdom tooth that doesn't develop properly. When they do grow, they are most likely to be impacted, meaning they don't emerge properly through the gums. Scientists attribute this to humans having smaller jaws over time, possibly due to a shift in diet. Soft, processed foods might have contributed to the decrease in jaw growth, leaving little room for wisdom teeth.
Palmaris Longus Muscle
The palmaris longus is a muscle that stretches from the lower arm bone (humerus) to the thick connective tissue in the palm. It's responsible for flexing the hand at the wrist and tightening the palm. Interestingly, not everyone has this muscle, but those who lack it can still perform these movements without issues. Some scientists believe this muscle is more functional in tree-climbing animals than in humans.
Darwin's Point
Darwin's point is a small bump sometimes found on the outer edge of the ear. This harmless deformity is thought to be a remnant of a joint that allowed the upper part of the ear to fold downward over the ear canal.
Coccyx (Tailbone)
The coccyx, or tailbone, is believed to have lost its original function over evolutionary time. It used to be part of an actual tail, and now consists of three to five fused vertebrae. While it's no longer a tail, the coccyx serves as an anchor for many muscles, ligaments, and tendons, which makes it a useful structure, despite its evolutionarily diminished function.
These unique facts show how the human body is complex and constantly evolving, with some parts no longer serving their original functions but still playing important roles.
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