Digestive Disturbances Following Appendectomy
At 47 years old, I recently underwent an appendectomy on December 26th. In addition to this, I have been prescribed Cymbalta to manage my anxiety. Post-surgery, I’ve noticed a significant drop in my appetite, and my stomach has been feeling unusual since then. Fortunately, I have not experienced any fever, severe pain, or nausea. My digestion is functioning normally whenever I do eat, and there are no issues like diarrhea. Should I consult my physician about these ongoing symptoms, or is this a typical occurrence after such a procedure? The situation is a bit unsettling.
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 12:40:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's not uncommon to experience changes in appetite and digestive function after an appendectomy, especially in the days or weeks following the surgery. Many patients report feeling different in their digestive system due to the physical and emotional stress of surgery, the medications they may be taking, and the recovery process itself. Let's break down your situation and discuss what you can do.
Explanation:
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Post-Operative Changes: After surgery, it’s normal to have fluctuations in appetite and digestive comfort. Your body needs time to heal, and this can affect your digestion and feelings of hunger.
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Medication Effects: Cymbalta (duloxetine), which you are taking for anxiety, can also impact appetite and stomach sensations. One side effect can be reduced appetite or changes in how your stomach feels.
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Monitoring Symptoms: Since you have not experienced severe symptoms like fever or nausea and your digestion seems normal when you do eat, this might indicate that your body is adjusting. However, it’s still essential to keep an eye on any changes.
Next Steps:
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Nutrition: Focus on small, nutritious meals if your appetite is low. Aim for easily digestible foods like rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet), gradually introducing more variety as your appetite returns.
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Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, as proper fluid intake can aid digestion and overall well-being. Drink water, herbal teas, or clear broth.
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Calming Techniques: Since you are managing anxiety, consider incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness, which may help ease any stress-related symptoms in your stomach.
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Symptom Journal: Keep a simple food and symptom diary. Note what you eat, how your stomach feels, and any other symptoms. This can help you and your physician identify patterns or triggers.
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Follow Up: If your appetite doesn't improve in the next week, or if you develop new symptoms (like pain, persistent nausea, or vomiting), it’s a good idea to contact your healthcare provider for further guidance. While these symptoms are likely typical, consulting with your physician can provide peace of mind and address your concerns.
Overall, while what you’re experiencing can be part of the healing process, staying attentive to your body's signals is important. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you feel uncertain.
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