Appendix pain can last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. The duration of the pain depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment that is received.
If the appendix becomes infected or if there are other complications, the pain may last longer. If the appendix is removed (appendectomy) the pain should subside once the surgery is complete.
Severe pain in the lower right abdomen is usually the first sign of appendicitis. This pain is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Other symptoms may include fever, chills, constipation, and diarrhea. If the appendix is not treated, it can rupture, leading to a life-threatening infection.
In order to determine the source of the pain, your doctor may recommend a number of tests, including a physical exam, blood tests, urine tests, and imaging tests such as an abdominal CT scan or an ultrasound.
If the diagnosis is appendicitis, the treatment usually involves the removal of the appendix (appendectomy). The procedure is usually performed surgically and takes about an hour. After the surgery, the patient usually remains in the hospital for a few days for observation and recovery.
The pain from appendicitis usually subsides immediately after the procedure. However, it may take a few days for the pain to completely go away. During this time, some patients may experience mild discomfort.
In some cases, the pain may last for a few weeks after the surgery. This is usually due to inflammation in the area of the surgery or a buildup of gas in the abdomen.
If you experience any prolonged pain after an appendectomy, it is important to speak to your doctor. They may recommend medications to help reduce the pain or further tests to check for any underlying causes.