Appendicitis Surgery Recovery Time - Diet, Lifestyle Changes

Call your surgeon if you experience any of the following:

• Abdominal pain, cramping, or swelling
• Difficulty breathing, constant coughing, or shortness of breath
• Fever greater than 101 degrees with or without chills
• Rising pain around the incision site after the third day of surgery
• Loss of appetite or inability to drink or eat
• No bowel movement or unable to pass gas for three to four days
• Redness, swelling, bleeding, or drainage from the incision site
• Repeated vomiting
• Watery diarrhea for more than three to four days

Some possible complications of appendicitis surgery include:

• Bleeding
• Wound complications such as poor closure, dehiscence (splitting open of the wound), or delayed healing. 
• Infection, redness, and swelling of the belly can occur if the appendix bursts during surgery (peritonitis).
• Blocked bowels
• Injury to nearby organs
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia, such as respiratory problems, allergic reactions, or medication side effects.

Yes, you can jog after appendix surgery; however, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider or surgeon for personalized advice regarding your specific situation. After an appendectomy, it’s common for healthcare professionals to suggest rest and limited physical activity. This typically involves avoiding strenuous activities, such as jogging or other intense exercises, for a certain period. When you do get the green light to resume physical activity, it’s advisable to start gradually and listen to your body.

Following your doctor’s advice and rest is the quickest way to recover from appendix surgery. The body has a natural healing mechanism; you can do nothing to speed it up. But by obeying your doctor’s instructions, you can ensure the healing process remains optimized.

After having your appendix removed, you can expect some pain, discomfort, and swelling in the days immediately following the surgery. Rest is important during this period in order to promote healing.

Yes, you can eat rice after your appendix surgery. Rice is rich in fiber and energy-giving carbohydrates and filled with vitamins and nutrients that keep your body healthy and boosts recovery. 

After appendix surgery, it’s normally advised to consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables. Fruits can provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and fiber that aid healing. Some fruits that are generally considered good choices after appendix surgery include citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons; berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries; bananas; apples; watermelon, etc. 

Your surgeon will provide clear instructions to care for your incision site. Generally, it involves keeping the incision clean and dry, changing dressings as directed, and avoiding excessive pressure or strain on the surgical site. Follow your surgeon’s guidelines diligently to prevent infection and encourage proper healing.

You can shower after appendix surgery, but it’s essential to keep the incision site dry. Your surgeon may suggest covering the incision with a waterproof dressing or plastic wrap to protect it during the shower. 

Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes during the first few weeks after your appendix surgery. The incision site will be tender, and the abdomen will be swollen; therefore, it is better not to exacerbate it with tight clothing.

After appendix surgery, it is common for people to experience some pain and discomfort, which can impact their sleep. Some tips to help you sleep more comfortably during the recovery period include finding a comfortable sleeping position. Some people find sleeping on their back with a pillow supporting their upper back and head helpful. Others may choose to sleep on their side with a pillow between their knees for extra support. Other ways include establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and ensuring your sleep environment is calm, well-ventilated, and comfortable. 

Most appendix surgeries today are performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy, which result in small incisions. These incisions heal well and may leave small scars that fade over time. However, the size and visibility of the scar can vary from person to person.

The cost of appendix surgery in India may range from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 70,000. However, the cost of the surgery is not specific and depends on distinct factors like the location of the hospital where the surgery takes place, the healthcare centre, the technique used (open surgery and laparoscopic surgery), the fees of the surgeon, the severity of the medical condition, and more.