Discomfort in Lower Right Abdomen Post-Appendectomy
I am a female, 25 years old, standing at 5 feet 9 inches and weighing 220 pounds. Hello, everyone. Over the past couple of days, I've been experiencing a painful sensation in my lower right abdomen that is also quite tender when pressed. The discomfort resembles a bruise but is significantly more intense. It feels akin to having repeatedly slammed into something hard, like a doorknob. This discomfort is located in the same area where I had considerable soreness for several weeks after my appendectomy in 2023. It's approximately two inches beneath my navel and an inch to the right of that. Although I am not running a fever, my temperature is slightly elevated at around 99.8 degrees Fahrenheit. I've been staying hydrated and have managed to eat a bit. I am experiencing some nausea but fortunately have not vomited. My bowel movements have been normal, and I've been able to pass gas since this issue began. I haven't noticed any pain in other areas. Should I be worried enough to seek immediate medical attention at urgent care or the emergency room? Or is it reasonable to wait until Tuesday when I have an appointment with my primary care physician? I haven't had any discomfort in that region since my appendectomy nearly two years ago.
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 3:50:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant and localized discomfort in your lower right abdomen, which is understandably concerning, especially following your appendectomy. The following outlines what you might consider as immediate next steps, along with necessary explanations.
Key Points:
- Localized pain and tenderness could be due to several factors, including post-surgical changes, muscle strain, or even a potential complication related to your previous appendectomy.
- Mild fever and nausea can sometimes indicate infection or inflammation in your abdomen, but your other symptoms (normal bowel movements and passing gas) are reassuring.
Explanation:
Your discomfort is in the area where your appendix was removed, which adds an extra layer of complexity to your symptoms. Post-appendectomy pain can occur due to scar tissue, muscle strain, or even infections. Since your symptoms are localized, it's less likely to be a widespread issue like a systemic infection at this point, but it's still important to monitor how you feel.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms, especially for any changes such as increased pain, fever above 100.4°F, vomiting, or any new symptoms like severe abdominal tenderness.
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Manage Pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help alleviate discomfort but follow the recommended dosages.
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Hydrate & Rest: Continue to stay hydrated and allow your body to rest as much as possible.
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Consider Urgency: Since you have an appointment on Tuesday and are not presenting with alarming symptoms (like severe pain or significant fever), it might be reasonable to wait. However, if your condition worsens, or if you develop sharp pain in the abdomen, or signs of possible infection, you should seek medical attention sooner.
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Keep a Diary: Document your symptoms, including how they change over the next few days, as this can be valuable information for your healthcare provider.
Although this situation is understandably worrisome, these steps can help you navigate the discomfort and decide the best time to reach out for further care. If you have any concerns or notice worsened symptoms, please prioritize seeking medical help. Your health and peace of mind are important.
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