Appendix Removal? A General Surgeon Can Help
Appendectomies are very common. If your appendix becomes inflamed, the doctor will remove it to ensure that it does not burst. A burst appendix can be fatal, which makes the role of a general surgical care provider incredibly important.
If you have been told that you need to have your appendix removed, you may want to know more about the surgery. Here's what you need to know.
What Are the Signs That You Need To Have Your Appendix Removed?
The symptoms that indicate you need to have your appendix removed can start very subtly, but they worsen over time. The first symptom is often stomach pain. The pain often begins near the belly button, but it will likely migrate to the right side of the abdomen.
Other signs include swelling of the abdomen, constipation, vomiting, fever, and lack of appetite. These are all signs you need to speak with a medical professional to discuss potential surgery.
Who Might Need This Surgery?
Anybody could develop appendicitis. While it may be more common in adults, children can also have their appendix taken out. Even pregnant women need to look for the symptoms, especially because surgery may be more urgent to help both mother and child.
How Can You Prepare for Surgery?
If you've been told that you need to come in for an appendectomy, you first need to avoid eating and drinking in the hours leading up to surgery. You also need to discuss your health history with your doctor and ensure that you inform your doctor about any medications you take.
You can also prepare by having somebody available to drive you to the hospital and home. You will be under general anesthesia, and you may need to stay in the hospital after your surgery.
Is This a Risky Surgery?
General surgeons are highly skilled and experienced, but there are some potential risks your doctor will inform you of. For example, you could experience bleeding, infection, or a blockage of the bowels.
With this in mind, you need to know that the side effects are very rare, and they are also less severe than not having the surgery when you need it.
Your General Surgeon Can Help
Your surgeon will take great care in ensuring that you have all the resources you need for your appendectomy and during the following days and weeks of recovery. Meet with a general surgeon today to discuss your health status so you know all the choices available to you.
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