Characteristics of Appendicitis Pain

Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
Updated on February 25, 2025
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The most typical pain manifestation of appendicitis is migratory pain, which generally starts in the upper abdomen or around the navel, and in most cases moves to the lower right abdomen and becomes fixed within a few hours. During physical examination, the pain usually localizes to a fixed point in the lower right abdomen, typically at McBurney's point, although this can vary with the position of the appendix. However, as the condition of the appendix progresses, such as when it becomes purulent or even gangrenous, the inflammation worsens and the area of tenderness can expand. This is mostly manifested by symptoms of peritoneal irritation, which are generally indicative of the timing for surgery. In most cases of appendicitis where the diagnosis is clear, early surgical intervention is recommended, as surgery is the only cure. Most patients who improve with conservative treatment are likely to experience recurrence later on.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Can appendicitis recur?

Acute appendicitis, if not treated surgically, can relapse under poor lifestyle and dietary habits and then transform into chronic appendicitis. Therefore, appendicitis can recur. However, if the appendix is removed during an acute episode of appendicitis, then appendicitis will not recur. Currently, the primary clinical treatment for appendicitis is surgery, because without surgery, the recurrence rate of appendicitis is quite high, and ultimately, the appendix must be removed.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Does appendicitis surgery hurt?

Appendectomy is performed under either epidural or general anesthesia, so the procedure is completely painless. However, postoperatively, as the anesthesia wears off, there may be slight pain at the incision site. Painkillers can be taken if the pain is intolerable. Additionally, close monitoring of vital signs is important postoperatively. Regular dressing changes at the surgical site and dietary control are required. For the first one to two days after surgery, a semi-liquid diet is recommended. From the third to the fifth day, patients can gradually transition to a normal diet. Furthermore, consuming high-protein foods can enhance nutrition and promote healing of the incision.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Causes of appendicitis

The main causes of appendicitis are the narrowing of the appendix lumen and the subsequent blockage of the appendix lumen. Bacterial infection can directly cause acute inflammation. Additionally, poor dietary habits in daily life can also trigger appendicitis. These include overeating and binge drinking, engaging in strenuous exercise right after eating, consuming strong tea, coffee, or spirits, neglecting rest, and excessive fatigue. Therefore, for the prevention of appendicitis, it is mainly important to develop regular lifestyle and eating habits, with meals at fixed times and in measured amounts, and consuming more vegetables to ensure the smooth functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What to eat with appendicitis

During the acute phase of appendicitis, no food should be consumed. In the recovery or remission phase, a semi-liquid diet is appropriate, such as drinking rice soup, noodle soup, and vegetable soup, and consuming vegetables like Chinese cabbage and cabbage to supplement dietary fiber and vitamins. On the day of appendicitis surgery, eating is also prohibited. A semi-liquid diet is recommended for 1 to 2 days post-surgery, gradually transitioning to a normal diet over 3 to 5 days. After transitioning to a normal diet, foods like beef, lamb, and eggs can be consumed to supplement nutrients and promote wound healing.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Does appendicitis cause vomiting?

Appendicitis can cause vomiting. An acute appendicitis attack presents with distinct symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, high fever, nausea, and vomiting. The main reason is the inflammation of the appendix lumen, which reflexively causes vomiting. For appendicitis, once diagnosed, surgery is generally required. Currently, there are two surgical approaches: laparoscopic appendectomy and appendectomy via McBurney's point. Laparoscopic appendectomy is more common and involves less intraoperative bleeding and faster postoperative recovery. Postoperatively, it is important to enhance nursing care by eating more vegetables, drinking plenty of water, and ensuring that stools are softened.