What Causes Abdominal Gas And Bloating After Appendectomy?

Posted on Thu, 14 Jan 2016

Question: My wife recently had an emergency removal of her appendix after it ruptured and she is suffering from gas and bloating. Is this normal as she had the surgery 5 days ago?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (23 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, at certain degree

Detailed Answer:
Hi and Welcome to HCM.
For Ruptured Appendicitis, it is expected that some digestion difficulties may occur such as bloating, diarrhea or nausea.

It may last for up to 10-14 days.

However, if she is unable to pass stool, started having fever, progressive pain or abdominal distension then this may indicate complications and you should consult the surgeon immediately .

By now, she should drink more fluids,magnesium rich carbonated drink and have easier diet .

Wish your wife a good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (1 hour later)

Bloating and Gas are one in the same? Is the bloating and gas from the procedure which was done to clean up the bursting byproducts so to speak and bacteria? My wife is Brazil and I am here in the U.S. Obviously I am concerned though she is in good company!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
hi

Detailed Answer:
Hi.
In ruptured appendix and consequent peritonitis there is pus and fibrin collection in abdominal cavity which is maximally washed during operation but after such procedures peritoneum infllamation continue to irritate bowel wall in postoperative period. As long as she has flatulence and stool there is no need to be worried,this is normal postoperative course.

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj