Post-Antibiotic Treatment: Pelvic Pain After Mild Appendicitis

After discharge from antibiotic treatment for mild appendicitis, there is pelvic pain?

Two Sundays ago, I went to the emergency room due to severe itching and was diagnosed with vaginitis.
After taking antibiotics for several days, I started experiencing pain and swelling in my lower right abdomen last Saturday.
I woke up in the early hours of Sunday with intense pain, to the point where I couldn't lie on my side.
After a severe dry heave, the pain suddenly lessened, but I still felt something was off, so I went to the emergency room for X-rays, blood tests, urinalysis, and a CT scan.
After several hours, they suspected "mild appendicitis." I chose conservative treatment and was hospitalized for antibiotic therapy, which alleviated the pain.
I was discharged on Tuesday afternoon, and the doctor advised me to continue taking the oral antibiotic Mosflow.
At that time, I felt much better and had no pain.
However, this morning I woke up to find that the bone on the right side of my buttocks is very sore, especially when walking.
I have been taking one Mosflow antibiotic every morning as prescribed.
Is this a sign that I am improving or that I am still not fully recovered?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/01

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

You may return for an earlier follow-up to check inflammatory markers and for a physical examination.

Reply Date: 2024/02/01

More Info

After experiencing mild appendicitis and undergoing antibiotic treatment, it's not uncommon to have lingering discomfort or pain in the pelvic region. Your situation, where you initially felt better after treatment but then developed soreness in the right side of your pelvis, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that the body can take time to fully recover after an episode of appendicitis, even if the acute symptoms have resolved. The soreness you are experiencing could be due to several factors:
1. Post-Surgical Recovery: If you had any surgical intervention (even if it was minimally invasive), your body might still be healing. The tissues in the pelvic area can be sensitive and may take time to return to normal function. This can lead to discomfort or pain, especially when moving or walking.

2. Muscle Strain: Sometimes, after a period of inactivity due to pain or illness, muscles can become weak or strained. If you have been less active during your recovery, the muscles around your pelvis may not be as strong, leading to discomfort when you start moving around more.

3. Nerve Sensitivity: After any abdominal surgery or significant inflammation, the nerves in the area can become hypersensitive. This means that even normal movements or sensations can be perceived as pain.

4. Residual Infection or Inflammation: While antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections, there can be residual inflammation or irritation in the pelvic area that might not be fully resolved. This could manifest as pain or discomfort.

5. Other Conditions: It's also important to consider that other conditions could be contributing to your pain. For example, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts, or even issues related to the urinary tract could cause similar symptoms.

Given these possibilities, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies or lab tests, to determine the cause of your ongoing discomfort. It’s crucial to communicate all your symptoms clearly, including the location and nature of the pain, any changes in bowel or urinary habits, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing.

In the meantime, here are some self-care strategies that may help alleviate your discomfort:
- Rest: Allow your body time to heal. Avoid strenuous activities that could exacerbate the pain.

- Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress to the affected area may help soothe muscle tension and reduce discomfort.

- Gentle Movement: While rest is important, gentle stretching or walking can help maintain mobility and prevent stiffness.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may help manage pain as directed by your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while it is possible that your symptoms are part of the normal recovery process, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to rule out any complications or other underlying conditions. Early intervention can help prevent further issues and ensure a smoother recovery. Always prioritize your health and seek medical advice when in doubt.

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