Ongoing Issues Following My Appendectomy
At 26 years old, I found myself in the emergency room on July 1st because of abdominal discomfort. The doctors diagnosed me with chronic appendicitis and prescribed antibiotics, sending me home. A week later, I underwent an appendectomy. However, shortly after the surgery, I experienced a significant spike in fever (ranging from 101 to 104 degrees) accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Upon returning to the emergency room, medical personnel discovered signs of a urinary infection through tests but were unable to determine the underlying cause via a CT scan. As a result, I was treated with intravenous antibiotics, specifically Rocephin. For the next couple of days, I struggled with constant vomiting and persistent diarrhea, though my fever subsided. This led to another visit to the ER due to dehydration, where I was given Promethazine for nausea and Sucralfate, which I have since stopped taking. Since that time, I’ve been dealing with sporadic health issues. Some days, I feel relatively fine, but then I experience a return of various symptoms including nausea, vomiting, bowel irregularities, abdominal discomfort (localized in several areas), acid reflux, fatigue, and even blood in my stool. A CT scan in August revealed proctitis, yet no other significant findings were noted. Most of the tests conducted (such as a celiac panel and an OVA and parasite test) returned with negative results. It has been two weeks since I took an H. Pylori test, and I’m still awaiting the results. My father had prostate cancer in his sixties, but I have no substantial family history of cancer or conditions that could shed light on my situation. I’ve previously dealt with mild stomach issues, such as occasional nausea and diarrhea, but nothing of this magnitude or persistence. My surgeon and primary care provider have both referred me to a gastroenterologist, who has been very helpful, yet I still feel lost without a clear diagnosis. I'm now seeking guidance on medical attention for this weekend. Over the last few days, I've been grappling with diarrhea, extreme fatigue, and increasing pain in the area where my appendix used to be. I reached out to my gastroenterologist but did not receive a reply before the weekend. Initially, I thought I could wait it out, but the pain intensified tonight. It has become painful to have a bowel movement, and the discomfort isn't limited to just my lower right abdomen; I occasionally feel it in other areas of my abdomen and lower back. Although the pain isn’t as severe as my appendicitis, it has a troubling resemblance that concerns me. I don’t have a fever at the moment, but I worry about the possibility of another infection. I am contemplating whether to go to urgent care or the emergency room—urgent care has been subpar and lacks imaging technology, but I'm unsure if my current state warrants a visit to the ER, since I doubt it could be appendicitis again. **In Summary**: I've been experiencing various gastrointestinal issues including proctitis, nausea, and vomiting for two months following my appendectomy, and I'm uncertain where to seek medical help for the increasing abdominal pain I've endured over the last few days.
Answers (1)
9/13/2025, 2:31:06 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a troubling range of symptoms following your appendectomy, including increasing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and extreme fatigue. While you’ve seen your gastroenterologist and are awaiting further test results, your current symptoms and history do warrant prompt attention.
Explanation:
Appendectomies can sometimes lead to complications, including infections or other gastrointestinal issues. Your concerns about increasing pain, especially around the surgical area, and the recurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms are valid. Given that you are experiencing pain during bowel movements and have a history of significant abdominal discomfort, it's important to ensure that nothing more serious is occurring.
Next Steps:
-
Seek Immediate Care: Given your worsening symptoms, particularly the pain and history of gastrointestinal issues post-surgery, I recommend going to the emergency room (ER). While it may not be appendicitis, the intensity of your symptoms requires a thorough evaluation to rule out complications such as infections or other gastrointestinal issues.
-
Document Your Symptoms: Before your ER visit, take note of your symptoms, including:
- The severity and location of your pain.
- Any changes in your bowel movements (like consistency and frequency).
- Any other symptoms like nausea or fatigue. This information can help the healthcare team understand your situation better.
-
Stay Hydrated: As you've experienced diarrhea and vomiting, it's important to try to stay hydrated. If you feel able, sip on clear fluids or oral rehydration solutions. However, if you are unable to keep fluids down, medical personnel at the ER will provide you with necessary IV fluids.
-
Communicate Your History: Ensure you inform the ER staff about your previous appendectomy, your episodes of high fever, urinary infection, and any ongoing treatments. This history is crucial for assessing your current condition accurately.
By addressing your symptoms promptly in the ER, you will not only receive the necessary care but also gain more clarity on what’s happening with your health. Remember, your well-being is a priority, and seeking help is an important step in managing these complications. Please take care of yourself, and I hope you feel better soon.
Related Questions
Exploring Inositol and CoQ10 for Managing PCOS Symptoms
As a 28-year-old female, I have faced the challenges of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) since my teenage years. Starting from the age of 16, I have dealt with highly irregular menstrual cycles, occurring anywhere from three to eight months apart. My diagnosis has been substantiated through two ultrasounds and blood tests revealing elevated androgen levels. Despite maintaining a healthy diet and leading an active lifestyle—balancing my work as an environmental biologist with gym sessions alongside my husband—I continue to wrestle with weight management. Other symptoms impacting my daily life include significant hair loss, unwanted facial hair, and persistent fatigue. In my journey to manage PCOS, I previously sought counsel from a gynaecologist, who primarily suggested hormonal birth control as the main approach to alleviate my symptoms. Although I adhered to this recommendation for several years, the hormonal changes negatively impacted my mood, leading me to discontinue its use. Another alternative proposed by my gynaecologist involved androgen blockers, but these are not suitable for me since my husband and I plan to start a family in the next two to three years. Recently, my research led me to discover that supplements like Inositol and CoQ10 might effectively combat insulin resistance and lower androgen levels. They are purported to improve various symptoms associated with PCOS, including the regulation of ovulation, all while boasting minimal adverse effects. I am curious about the viability of these supplements as alternatives to hormonal birth control or androgen blockers in managing my PCOS symptoms.
Seeking Clarity on My Spinal Tap Results: A Bit Anxious
I am a 31-year-old woman experiencing a continuous headache for the past four months, accompanied by feelings of nausea and exhaustion. I take Lexapro each day to manage my mental health. I have a history of migraines and headaches, but this recent episode doesn't align with my previous experiences. Here are the findings from my spinal tap: - **Opening Pressure of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)**: 9 cm H₂O - **Presence of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) in CSF**: 2,570 - **Total Protein Level in CSF**: 107 mg/dL - **ACE Level in CSF**: 4.4 - **Other Tests on CSF**: Results were normal. - **Brain MRI and MR Venography**: Both tests yielded normal results. - **Blood Test Results**: Normal results were obtained. Given these results, I'm feeling a bit uneasy and I’m hoping to better understand what they might indicate about my health.
Navigating Ear Infections While Traveling in Thailand
**Age:** 23 **Height:** 6'3" **Weight:** 88 kg **Medication Taken:** 1000mg Bactoclav - Amoxicillin with Potassium Clavulanate, along with pain relief and antihistamines. **Summary:** I’m hesitant to consult a doctor overseas only to receive a prescription for the same antibiotics available at a local pharmacy for a fraction of the price. What strategies can I employ to effectively manage this persistent ear infection? Am I being too hasty in my expectations? I have a long history of ear infections, often triggered by exposure to water or any activity impacting my ears. I regularly use a specialized oil before showering to prevent water from entering my ears. While backpacking in Thailand, I've developed a particularly severe ear infection over the last several days. Initially, a course of 500mg amoxicillin seemed effective, but significantly, just yesterday my condition took a downturn, shifting from nearly healed to painfully inflamed. Now, my ear is not only swollen but also incredibly sore. In an attempt to combat this, I’ve been taking 1000mg Bactoclav - Amoxicillin and Potassium Clavulanate, having consumed seven tablets in the last two days; unfortunately, there's been no noticeable improvement. I’m reluctant to seek medical attention, fearing I would be prescribed the same medication I could acquire from a pharmacy, albeit at a much higher cost. Yet, I’m also starting to question the efficacy of the pharmacy’s medication. I’ve only recently begun the stronger treatment since my symptoms returned. Any advice would be greatly valued! In addition, I’d like to share that just a week into my four-month journey, I feel as though my ongoing ear issues are gradually dominating my life. I am incredibly grateful for this travel opportunity, and while my health isn’t at risk in a serious way, these ear complications are becoming quite overwhelming. Could there be surgical options available? Might there be an underlying health concern that I’m unaware of? It doesn’t seem normal to be plagued by constant ringing, popping sounds, and wax buildup in my ears. Moreover, it feels excessive to have to apply products in my ears every time I shower.
Injury to the Sciatic Nerve
At 25 years old and weighing 135 pounds, I am currently taking naproxen and Lyrica to manage my sciatic nerve injury. The pain in my right leg has made it incredibly difficult for me to remain upright. It’s been two weeks since I first sought treatment; I consulted a physician who advised medication and attended a physiotherapy session. Initially, I experienced some relief after the appointment, but unfortunately, the pain returned the following day—even the prescribed home exercises exacerbated my discomfort. Just yesterday, I attempted the cobra pose, along with the flossing technique, which only heightened my pain. I find it nearly impossible to stand for more than a few seconds before the discomfort becomes intolerable. Additionally, I have an appointment with an osteopath on Tuesday, but I can't shake off my worries— is it normal to still struggle with walking after two weeks? Although I am experiencing some numbness in my toes, I haven’t encountered any loss of bladder or bowel control, worsening numbness, or weakness in my legs, so I feel stable in that regard. Nonetheless, I fear the possibility of never fully recovering and being left with a lasting disability. The pain is overwhelming, adding to my anxiety about the future.
Inquiry Regarding Metronidazole Use for Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis
I am a 32-year-old female, measuring 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 248 pounds. My current medications include Vyvanse at a dosage of 40mg, a medication for asthma, vitamin D, a 325mg iron supplement, and as of now, I am also taking amoxicillin to treat strep throat. I am about to begin using Metronidazole 0.75% Vaginal Gel, with a total of 70 grams available. The instructions indicate that I should administer 5 grams vaginally twice a day for seven days, followed by twice a week for a period of two months. During the initial treatment phase when I will apply the gel twice daily, I anticipate abstaining from sexual activity. However, once I transition to the twice-weekly application, is it permissible to engage in sexual intercourse? I would normally consult my physician about this matter, but she is currently unavailable, and the nurse is also out of the office, which is quite frustrating.