Hi, my 3 and a 1/2 year old brother had his ruptured appendix removed by surgery five days ago. He came back from the hospital today. After the surgery, his stomach was seriously swollen, which the doctor said was due to gas. He often felt nauseated, and even vomited, once a day after the surgery, every evening. He also complained of pain in hi stomach/ abdomen area but since he is young and very weak after the operation, he didn t exactly point where it was paining. I m really worried because the vomiting is usually a symptom of appendicitis so it should stop after the appendix is removed. Also, the doctor had said his swollen stomach would gradually reduce but it hasn t. What is wrong with him?
Hello! It is common that after opening abdominal cavity an intestine need some time to start work property. It is described as paralytic illus, and it is normal after any abdominal surgery. However, it shouldn't last for more than few days after a surgery. Otherwise, there advisable to suspect that something went wrong. Sometimes after an appendectomy (and any other surgery) intestines may be twisted what results with intestinal obstruction. This is urgent situation and another surgery may be required. That is why if these symptoms are not going away, surgeon visit is advisable. It is necessary to perform abdomen X-ray which will rule it out. Take care