Post-Appendectomy Pain: Discomfort After Surgery - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Post-Appendectomy Pain: Discomfort After Surgery

Hello： A 35-year-old male is experiencing lingering discomfort after undergoing surgery for appendicitis complicated by peritonitis, which may indicate that gastrointestinal function has not yet fully recovered. <br>It is recommended to follow up with further examinations. <br>Af

Post-operative discomfort or pain is common after appendicitis surgery, especially if there is accompanying peritonitis?

Hello, I had laparoscopic surgery for appendicitis complicated by peritonitis about a month ago.
The wounds from the two incisions in my lower right abdomen and my belly button seem to have healed quite well.
The wounds are not very painful, and I can take showers now.
However, in the area of the two incisions in my lower right abdomen, although the wounds are only slightly painful, I constantly feel a dull ache and discomfort inside.
I'm not sure why this is happening.
Externally, the wounds appear to be about 80-90% healed, but sometimes I experience persistent dull pain and occasional sharp pain (possibly from accidentally straining).
Could you please explain why I am experiencing this dull pain and discomfort, and why I feel weak and lacking energy?

Jie Ke, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/26

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: A 35-year-old male is experiencing lingering discomfort after undergoing surgery for appendicitis complicated by peritonitis, which may indicate that gastrointestinal function has not yet fully recovered.
It is recommended to follow up with further examinations.
After surgery for appendicitis with peritonitis, please monitor for any signs of wound infection or intra-abdominal infection, as well as any other gastrointestinal issues.
Wishing you safety and good health! Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/10/26

More Info

Post-appendectomy pain, particularly after a laparoscopic appendectomy, can be a common experience for many patients. While it is encouraging that your external wounds are healing well and you are able to resume activities like showering, the internal sensations you are describing—such as dull pain, discomfort, and occasional sharp pains—can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after any surgical procedure, including an appendectomy, the body undergoes a healing process that can take time. Even if the skin appears to be healing, the underlying tissues, including muscles, fascia, and nerves, may still be recovering. The sensation of "dull pain" or "pressure" you feel could be due to inflammation or irritation of the tissues surrounding the surgical site. This is often referred to as "postoperative pain" and can be exacerbated by activities that involve straining or lifting, which may cause temporary discomfort.

Another factor to consider is the possibility of nerve irritation or entrapment. During surgery, nerves can be stretched or compressed, leading to sensations of pain or discomfort in the area. This can manifest as a feeling of tightness or a "pulling" sensation in the abdomen. Additionally, the formation of scar tissue (adhesions) can occur as part of the healing process, which may also contribute to discomfort. Adhesions can sometimes cause organs or tissues to stick together, leading to sensations of pulling or discomfort, especially when moving or changing positions.

The feeling of weakness and lack of energy you are experiencing could be related to several factors, including postoperative fatigue, pain, or even anxiety about your recovery. It is not uncommon for patients to feel a sense of fatigue after surgery, as the body has expended energy to heal. Additionally, if you are experiencing pain, it can lead to decreased activity levels, which may further contribute to feelings of weakness or lethargy.

In terms of management, it is crucial to communicate your symptoms with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a variety of approaches to help alleviate your discomfort. These could include:
1. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage mild discomfort. If your pain is more severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in gentle physical therapy or exercises can help strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve flexibility, which may alleviate some of the discomfort you are experiencing.

3. Rest and Recovery: Ensure you are allowing your body adequate time to heal. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider.

4. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon or primary care physician are essential. They can monitor your recovery and address any concerns you may have about your symptoms.

5. Hydration and Nutrition: Maintaining good hydration and a balanced diet can support your overall recovery and energy levels.

In summary, while it is normal to experience some discomfort after an appendectomy, persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. They can help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed and provide you with a tailored plan to manage your symptoms effectively. Remember, recovery is a process, and it is important to be patient with your body as it heals.

Similar Q&A

Post-Appendectomy Pain: Is It Normal to Experience Discomfort?

Why is it that after an appendectomy, I suddenly experience pain in the same area one or two months later, where even light pressure causes pain? Sometimes the pain is so intense that I have to squat down and rub my abdomen. Is this normal?

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir: You may return to the surgical outpatient clinic to discuss whether any additional examinations are needed. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian

Can Appendicitis Recur After Appendectomy? Understanding Post-Surgery Pain

I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing discomfort. After an appendectomy, it is uncommon for the appendix to become inflamed again, as it is typically removed during the surgery. However, it is possible to experience pain in the right lower abdomen due to other reas...

Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, the likelihood of appendicitis recurring 2 to 3 years after an appendectomy is low, with only a small number of cases resulting in localized abscesses. If there is a fever, you may ask your doctor to arrange a CT scan for confirmation. The most common cause of pain after s...

Post-Appendectomy Pain: Understanding Recovery and Symptoms

Hello, I had surgery for appendicitis on the night of May 19th, and the doctor placed a drainage tube. I was hospitalized for three days after the surgery and then discharged. Now that I'm at home, I experience significant discomfort in my back regardless of how I lie down t...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After the surgery, theoretically, there should be no more pain in the back. Please monitor the wound for any signs of fever or chills, and check for any burning sensation during urination. If the situation does not improve, you should return for a follow-up appointment as ...

Post-Appendectomy Abdominal Swelling and Pain: What to Expect

I apologize, but I would like to inquire about experiencing abdominal distension and pain (not at the incision site) after surgery. Is this a common postoperative phenomenon, or could it indicate another issue? Thank you.

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Ms. Chen, Hello. It is possible that the abdominal pain you are experiencing post-surgery is due to adhesions. You also mentioned that your abdomen is swollen. We recommend that you consult with your surgeon for further evaluation to determine if there are any other issues...