What Causes Appendicitis, and What Should You Be Mindful of?
Appendicitis is a common disease among adolescents, primarily caused by vigorous exercise after eating and chronic constipation. When appendicitis occurs, patients typically experience significant abdominal pain, necessitating immediate hospitalization for appendectomy. Post-operatively, patients require bed rest for approximately one month, ideally in a semi-recumbent position to alleviate muscular stress. Additionally, patients should avoid engaging in physical labor and prioritize wound hygiene and vital sign monitoring.
Patients with appendicitis often experience significant abdominal pain, which can be effectively alleviated by adopting the correct lying position. Typically, a semi-recumbent or inclined position is recommended, as these positions help reduce muscular stress and relieve pain.
Although appendicitis is generally considered a minor surgical procedure, there is still a risk of complications. Therefore, it is crucial to closely monitor the patient's vital signs post-operatively. This includes checking temperature, respiration, pulse, and blood pressure every 30 minutes and communicating promptly with the doctor regarding any changes in the patient's mental status. Any abnormalities must be reported immediately.
Post-operative rest is essential, even for patients with chronic appendicitis undergoing conservative treatment. This condition can leave the patient physically weak, and engaging in physical labor before recovery can easily lead to other complications.
People with chronic constipation may develop fecaliths, which can accumulate in the intestines and lead to abnormal digestion. Sometimes, food particles can be obstructed by these fecaliths and reach the cecum, causing inflammation.
Engaging in vigorous exercise immediately after eating can easily trigger appendicitis. The gastrointestinal tract is still relatively full after eating, and intense physical activity can cause food to enter the cecum and trigger inflammation.
Untreated intestinal obstruction can also lead to appendicitis as a complication.
