Post-Appendectomy: Fever and Frequent Urination After Surgery - Surgery

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After an appendectomy, especially when there has been some degree of peritonitis, it is not uncommon for patients to experience a range of postoperative symptoms, including fever and changes in urinary patterns. In your case, the presence of fever and frequent urination 15 days post-surgery raises several considerations that are important to address.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that fever can be a common postoperative complication. It may arise from various causes, including:
1. Infection: This is the most common reason for fever after surgery. Even if the surgical site appears normal, there could be an underlying infection, such as an intra-abdominal abscess or a urinary tract infection (UTI). Given that you mentioned experiencing some abdominal inflammation (peritonitis), the risk of developing an infection in the abdominal cavity is heightened.

2. Inflammatory Response: The body’s natural response to surgery includes inflammation, which can sometimes manifest as a mild fever. This is typically self-limiting and resolves as the body heals.

3. Other Causes: Fever can also be caused by non-infectious factors, such as a reaction to medications, blood clots, or other systemic issues.

Regarding your frequent urination, this can also be attributed to several factors:
1. Postoperative Effects: After abdominal surgery, the bladder may become more sensitive, leading to increased frequency of urination. This can be exacerbated by the use of certain medications, such as diuretics or pain medications, which can affect bladder function.

2. Urinary Tract Infection: As mentioned earlier, a UTI can cause increased frequency of urination, often accompanied by urgency and discomfort. If you are experiencing any burning sensation while urinating or any unusual changes in the urine (such as cloudiness or foul odor), this could indicate a UTI.

3. Fluid Intake: Increased fluid intake post-surgery is often encouraged to aid recovery, which can naturally lead to more frequent urination.

Given your symptoms of fever and frequent urination, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. While your surgical site may appear normal and your initial follow-up may not have indicated any issues, the development of fever and changes in urinary habits warrant further evaluation. Your doctor may recommend:
- Blood Tests: To check for signs of infection or inflammation (e.g., elevated white blood cell count, CRP levels).

- Urinalysis: To rule out a urinary tract infection.

- Imaging Studies: If there is a suspicion of an abscess or other complications, imaging such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be necessary.

In summary, while some postoperative symptoms can be normal, the combination of fever and frequent urination should not be overlooked. It is essential to communicate these symptoms to your healthcare provider for appropriate assessment and management. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure a smoother recovery process.