Your Recovery
Your doctor removed your appendix either by making many small cuts, called incisions, in your belly (laparoscopic surgery) or through open surgery. In open surgery, the doctor makes one large incision. The incisions leave scars that usually fade over time.
After your surgery, it is normal to feel weak and tired for several days after you return home. Your belly may be swollen and may be painful. If you had laparoscopic surgery, you may have shoulder pain. This is caused by the air the doctor put in your belly to help see the organs better. The pain may last for a day or two.
You may also have nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas, or a headache. These problems usually go away in a few days.
Your recovery time depends on the type of surgery you had. If you had laparoscopic surgery, you will probably be able to return to work or a normal routine in a couple of weeks after surgery. If you had an open surgery, it may take longer. If your appendix ruptured, you may have a drain in your incision.
Your body will work fine without an appendix. You won't have to make any changes in your diet or lifestyle.
This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace. Follow the steps below to get better as quickly as possible.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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