What tests are done for appendicitis?

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on April 19, 2025
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Appendicitis examination primarily involves a physical examination. The patient lies flat with their legs bent, and the doctor stands on the patient's right side. The patient exposes their abdomen, and the doctor places their right palm flat in the middle of the abdomen, then smoothly performs a clockwise palpation, pressing the abdomen to check for rebound tenderness, especially at McBurney's point. If there is significant tenderness and rebound pain at McBurney's point, along with symptoms of fever and nausea, appendicitis is generally considered. An ultrasound can also be used as an auxiliary examination, where swelling of the appendix can be observed. Based on the physical examination and auxiliary tests, a preliminary diagnosis of appendicitis can be made.

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Should you avoid certain foods if you have chronic appendicitis?

The majority of chronic appendicitis is transformed from acute appendicitis after treatment. Clinically, it mainly manifests as recurrent pain and discomfort in the lower right abdomen. In cases of chronic appendicitis, it is important to pay attention to a reasonable diet, avoid overeating and the consumption of gastrointestinal irritants, including spicy foods and some hard, cold foods, as these can induce pain in the lower right abdomen. Additionally, the diet should be low in sodium, sugar, and fat. Consumable options may include liquid or semi-liquid foods, as well as foods like yogurt. It is also advisable to eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and anti-inflammatory substances, such as apples, bananas, cabbage, and cauliflower.

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Can appendicitis cause vomiting?

Some patients with appendicitis may experience symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. This is because the appendix is located in the lower right abdomen near the ileocecal area, and the appendix cavity is connected to the cecum. The appendix is an independent organ of the human digestive tract. When inflamed, the inflammation can easily irritate the surrounding intestines, causing intestinal spasms and contractions, leading to nausea and vomiting. A typical manifestation of appendicitis is referred pain in the lower right abdomen. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, it is advisable to promptly start anti-inflammatory treatment and, if necessary, proceed with surgical treatment. Appendicitis can range from acute simple appendicitis, which responds well to conservative anti-inflammatory treatment, to acute suppurative or even perforated appendicitis. In these severe cases, it is recommended to perform surgery as soon as possible to remove the appendix and clear the inflammatory secretions, alongside anti-inflammatory treatment.

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How long after appendicitis can one have intercourse?

Regarding how long after appendectomy one can engage in sexual activities, it mainly depends on the treatment method used and the healing status after the surgery. Most cases of appendicitis can be treated with minimally invasive techniques, which not only cause less trauma and allow for quicker recovery but also reduce postoperative complications. The abdomen typically has two to three small puncture holes, each about one centimeter in length, and most patients can achieve sufficient strength to engage in sexual activities about a month after surgery. However, for traditional open surgery, the abdominal incision is usually longer, which may lead to incision infection and poor healing of the incision, and it generally takes about three months to achieve sufficient strength. For acute appendicitis, minimally invasive treatment is generally recommended, provided the patient's condition permits.

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Is appendicitis prone to recurrence?

Appendicitis, if treated by surgically removing the appendix, generally does not recur and can be cured. However, if one only uses medication to control the symptoms during an attack of appendicitis, it can easily recur. For appendicitis, laparoscopic appendectomy is currently the preferred surgical treatment. This method involves less bleeding during surgery and quicker recovery post-surgery. For elderly or frail patients who cannot tolerate general anesthesia, the traditional surgical method involving an incision at McBurney's point can be chosen. With this method, it is important to rest more. Patients can usually be discharged about a week after surgery. Postoperative care should be strengthened, dietary adjustments should be made, and more vegetables should be eaten to prevent constipation.

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Postoperative diet for acute appendicitis

Postoperative diet for acute appendicitis should be taken with special attention. On the day of the surgery, no food should be consumed. After waiting for anal gas to pass, which typically occurs on the first day post-surgery, a semi-liquid diet can be chosen, consisting of easily digestible foods such as rice porridge, millet congee, and vegetable soup. From the third to the fifth day post-surgery, a normal diet can be resumed, including eating eggs and meat to supplement proteins and dietary fibers, which help the incision heal. Vegetables and fruits should also be consumed to prevent constipation. Additionally, proper care should be taken of the incision site, including regular dressing changes.