What should I do about chronic appendicitis?

Written by Li Jin Quan

General Surgery

Updated on February 28, 2025

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Most cases of chronic appendicitis are transformed from treated acute appendicitis. Clinically, chronic appendicitis mainly presents as recurrent pain or dull pain in the lower right abdomen. When diagnosed with chronic appendicitis, active surgical treatment is recommended. Currently, the surgical options include traditional open appendectomy and laparoscopic appendectomy, which is referred to as minimally invasive surgery. Minimally invasive surgery causes less trauma and allows for quicker recovery.

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Written by Li Jin Quan

General Surgery

47sec

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Where does chronic appendicitis hurt?

Chronic appendicitis, unlike acute appendicitis, does not begin with upper abdominal pain followed by pain in the lower right abdomen, which we refer to as migratory lower right abdominal pain; migratory lower right abdominal pain is a characteristic symptom of acute appendicitis. Chronic appendicitis typically presents with chronic recurrent pain, discomfort, dull pain, or bloating in the lower right abdomen. During a physical examination, chronic appendicitis generally manifests as fixed tenderness in the lower right abdomen, with less evident rebound pain. Rebound pain in the lower right abdomen during a physical exam only occurs when chronic appendicitis acutely flares up and signs of peritonitis are present.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

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What should I do about acute appendicitis?

Once acute appendicitis is diagnosed and surgical contraindications are ruled out, appendectomy is usually performed. Currently, the most common method is laparoscopic appendectomy, which results in less intraoperative bleeding and quicker postoperative recovery. After the surgery, depending on the severity of the appendicitis, the use of antibiotics may be considered. Additionally, fasting is required on the day of the surgery, and a semi-liquid diet may be chosen for the first one or two days post-surgery. Three to four days after the surgery, foods like egg custard, vegetable soup, and rice can be eaten, before gradually transitioning back to a normal diet.

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming

Gastroenterology

55sec

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What should I do if I have appendicitis pain?

Appendicitis should first be diagnosed and treated at the general surgery outpatient clinic. The doctor will perform relevant examinations based on symptoms and signs, such as complete blood count, C-reactive protein, and ultrasound of the lower right abdomen, among others. Based on the results of these tests, the doctor will make an appropriate judgment about the condition. Generally, surgery is advocated for acute appendicitis. If the inflammation is not severe, conservative treatment, primarily focusing on anti-inflammatory treatment, may also be an option. Severe acute appendicitis poses a risk of perforation, and timely hospitalization for surgical treatment is recommended. Chronic appendicitis should also be managed based on specific symptoms, signs, and related examinations, with early surgery performed if possible to prevent recurrent episodes.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

40sec

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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

52sec

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What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

Appendicitis is an acute inflammation occurring in the lumen of the appendix. The primary symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, and rebound pain. Migratory right lower abdominal pain is a common indicator used for diagnosing appendicitis. Additionally, appendicitis located posterior to the peritoneum may also present with radiating pain in the lower back. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, surgical treatment is required, except for elderly or frail individuals who cannot tolerate surgery and may opt for conservative treatment. Laparoscopic appendectomy is a commonly used surgical method, as it involves less bleeding during surgery and faster recovery afterwards. Postoperative care should be emphasized, with adjustments in diet, and an increased intake of vegetables to prevent constipation.