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Appendicitis operation: recovery and care

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. But the problem is not the inflammation itself, but the evolution that it could have, and peritonitis may form, which is why it is chosen to remove it. It is an organ without which you can live perfectly. Appendicitis can appear at any age, although there is a higher incidence between 10 and 30 years. It usually causes discomfort and vomiting, although it is difficult to identify it as such. It is a simple operation; however, it requires some care and diet after surgery. In this FastlyHealarticle, we explain everything about the appendicitis operation: recovery and maintenance.

What is appendicitis, and why does it occur?

The appendix is ​​an organ that few people know about. We know that it is there and that you can live without it since appendicitis operation is quite common, but do we know anything else about this organ?

The appendix is ​​located just at the beginning of the large intestine, on the right side of the abdomen. For years it has been said that it is a useless organ and that it is futile, although the truth is that inside there are lymphoid follicles of the immune system. Some studies have shown that it does have a function: it produces and protects the good bacteria from Our organism. That is, it fulfills an autoimmune process.

The truth is that appendicitis is quite common, and although its peak incidence is between 10 and 30 years old, it can occur at any age. The inflammation of the appendix affects the lymphoid tissue, the mucosa, and the muscle layer.

When there is appendicitis, it is decided to remove the appendix since, as we have seen, it is an organ without which we can live without changing our life or health. The problem is not the inflammation itself, but untreated appendicitis could become infected or fill with blood and form peritonitis. In this case, it has to be treated urgently. Thus, the only treatment for appendicitis is its removal.

Appendicitis is formed because the appendix’s internal canal becomes blocked, which can be due to various causes, such as hyperplasia of lymphoid follicles, which is the most common cause. They can become infected and inflamed and clog the duct. It may also be because, since it is located next to the large intestine, part of the fecal mass that passes through it obstructs it. Other causes may include some parasite or microbe, or even foreign bodies, or it may be due to a tumor.

The symptoms of appendicitis usually appear in an order that has been called Murphy’s pathocracy. However, they do not always occur this way, and that is why it is straightforward to confuse it with some other pathology such as gastroenteritis. The pain usually appears first in the upper part of the abdomen or the center, in the navel area. It is like colic, a constant dull ache. This results in the following symptom, which is vomiting and nausea. And finally, the pain passes to the correct part of the abdomen; the lower right area usually hurts continuously.

Sometimes vomiting and nausea appear earlier than pain so that they can be confused. To diagnose it requires a medical examination and perhaps some test.

What is an appendicitis operation like?

There are two ways to perform an appendectomy:

  • Laparoscopically: in this procedure, small incisions are made in the abdomen inserted by the instruments. It has a short postoperative period, and recovery is usually faster as there is no large opening.
  • Laparotomy: is the conventional technique. In this case, the incision is more significant. It is usually done parallel to the groin on the lower right side of the abdomen, which is where the appendix is ​​located.

In either case, anesthesia is general. Once the incision or incisions are made, the peritoneum, which is the membrane that surrounds the abdominal cavity on the inside, is sectioned. The arteries that supply the appendix must be compressed to prevent bleeding. The appendix is then cut and removed. And finally, the incisions are closed with stitches.

It is usual for antibiotics to be given before the operation to prevent infection (antibiotic prophylaxis). The process may be delayed in advanced or acute appendicitis cases; if not, it will be immediate.

When it has evolved to peritonitis, before the extraction, the internal cavity of the abdomen will be cleaned, and the operation must be urgent.

Recovery and care after the operation

The appendicitis operation is not dangerous, although, like any operation, there may be a risk of bleeding. Recovery after an appendectomy involves having a specific diet. The postoperative period is not very long; it usually lasts between 2 and 4 days, when the patient will usually stay in the hospital.

On the first day, you will not be able to take anything solid, but you can drink liquids and semi-liquids such as yogurts. On this first day, you should be on bed rest and not get up. On the second day, you will be able to start getting up and walking a bit, and it is necessary. Usually, the discharge is generally given after three days if the person is well. When 36 hours have passed, you can start eating something solid during the second day, although it will be a soft diet.

Once you are discharged, you should continue with a relatively healthy diet, avoiding powerful things such as fried foods, sugars, and, above all, alcohol. Cook things on the iron or steam, and do not forget to hydrate a lot and drink a lot of water.

It is expected that the incision and the stitches will hurt in the first days since they will be recent. The doctor will prescribe analgesics for pain and always follow their instructions. The pests are common and ordinary. However, if you suffer from fever, it is advisable to see a doctor. As long as you have the points, you will not be able to bathe in pools or take a bath. After seven days, the stitches will likely be removed, and you will feel much better. Still, forced physical activities or sports will be avoided. You would have to wait at least a month to exercise again if you were training.

This article is merely informative; at FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Appendicitis operation: recovery and care, we recommend that you enter our Digestive System category.

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