Depending on the surgical technique used (appendectomy or laparoscopic appendectomy), elevated temperature after appendicitis may persist for 2-3 days or even several weeks. If the temperature does not decrease for 1.5 weeks, it is a rather serious symptom. It is essential to check for the presence of fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity or wound infection. The type of appendicitis also plays a significant role. For example, an elevated temperature up to 39°C with phlegmonous appendicitis is considered normal and can persist for up to three days.
Causes of elevated temperature after appendix removal
The temperature after appendectomy may arise due to wound infection. This is the most common cause, often resulting from non-compliance with medical recommendations. Another possible cause could be damage to internal organs during the operation. As a result, a traumatic inflammatory process may develop further.
Another quite common cause of post-appendectomy fever can be a decrease in immunity, as any surgical intervention puts significant stress on the body. During the recovery period, the human body begins to utilize all internal reserves. For this reason, additional illnesses such as viral or acute respiratory infections may occur.
Elevated temperature can also occur due to severe bleeding during the surgical procedure. An infectious process may also join during the operation. The drainage, which may be installed during the surgery, can also be a cause of increased temperature. Once the drainage tubes are removed, the body temperature should normalize. Inflammation often develops due to improper nutrition. The patient must strictly adhere to the diet prescribed by the doctor, as there is a risk of general intoxication. Typically, temperature after appendectomy may also be accompanied by profuse sweating and chills. To diagnose the causes of inflammation, the following methods are used:
- A clinical blood test confirming the presence of significant inflammation;
- An ultrasound, which allows visualizing the inflammatory process.
If the temperature has increased
It is essential to remember that elevated temperature during the first three days after appendectomy is normal. However, if this condition persists for a more extended period, measures should be taken. In the first place, the treating physician should prescribe a course of antibiotics depending on the causative agent of the inflammation. The patient may also take antipyretic drugs (such as paracetamol or acetylsalicylic acid). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen) are often prescribed.
Self-administration of medications to reduce temperature after an appendectomy is strictly prohibited. The patient spends the first week after the surgery in the hospital, during which doctors monitor the condition of the stitches and wounds. These actions help prevent or promptly detect the inflammatory process. The patient will remain in the hospital until the elevated body temperature subsides. If necessary, the doctor may take radical measures, including the possibility of a repeat surgical intervention.