Appendicitis Treatment

How is Appendicitis Diagnosed?

Appendicitis is diagnosed by a general surgeon or emergency physician using a physical examination, blood tests, urine tests and imaging studies. A CT scan is commonly used in adults, while an ultrasound is often preferred in children. MRI may be performed during pregnancy when required. These investigations help confirm appendicitis and exclude other causes of abdominal pain.

How is Appendicitis Treated Based on Severity?

Treatment of appendicitis is based on the degree of inflammation and whether there are any complications present. Commonly used appendicitis treatment based on severity is mentioned in the table below:

Types of Appendicitis and Their Treatment

Appendicitis treatment depends on its type. An overview of appendicitis based on its type is given below:

Other Treatments for Appendicitis

Other treatment methods for appendicitis are as follows:

Oral Medications for Appendicitis

Oral medications may be prescribed for relief from abdominal pain or in certain uncomplicated cases of appendicitis. Oral medication may include:

• Paracetamol: Used for pain relief after treatment or surgery.

• Ibuprofen: May be used for pain relief when appropriate.

• Amoxicillin-Clavulanate: May be prescribed in selected uncomplicated cases or after surgery.

• Metronidazole: Used with other antibiotics to treat anaerobic bacterial infections.

• Ciprofloxacin: May be prescribed with metronidazole in selected patients when appropriate.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatments for Appendicitis

There is no evidence that ayurvedic or alternative medicines are helpful for treating appendicitis or can be used to replace surgery when needed. However, the following measures can help maintain overall well-being:

• Yoga and breathing exercises can be useful in supporting recovery from the ailment after treatment or surgery.

• Mindfulness and relaxation exercises may help in coping with stress after the ailment.

Note: Alternative treatments must not defer medical assessment or treatment for appendicitis.

Home Care for Managing Appendicitis

The following home care steps should be taken by patients recovering from appendicitis or appendicectomy operations:

• Take all medications on time.

• Maintain cleanliness and dryness of the wounds.

• Restrict yourself from any heavy work.

• Have enough fluid intake to avoid dehydration.

• Follow a normal dietary intake gradually.

• Walk regularly to improve circulation.

• Visit your doctor for follow-ups and wound examination.

• Avoid driving while taking strong pain medicines.

• Complete the prescribed antibiotic course.

• Avoid strenuous exercise until advised by the surgeon.

Consult your doctor immediately if you have a fever, worsening stomach pain, nausea, or discharge from the wound.

How Long Does Appendicitis Treatment Take?

The treatment period depends upon the severity of the appendicitis, the presence of complications and the type of treatment chosen. An overview of the same is given below:

Appendicitis Treatment Side Effects

Appendicitis treatment can lead to the following side effects or complications:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhoea or constipation

• Pain and soreness around the surgical wound

• Bloating or abdominal discomfort

• Wound infection

• Bleeding

• Intra-abdominal abscess (rare)

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Appendicitis

The following lifestyle tips may help recover from appendicitis and appendectomy:

• Strictly adhere to all post-surgery advice.

• Slowly start physical activity as directed by the surgeon.

• Drink enough water.

• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet high in fibre during the recovery period.

• Do not smoke during the recovery time.

• Take medications as directed.

• Go to all scheduled appointments.

• Avoid heavy lifting until the surgeon says otherwise.

Triggers That Can Worsen Appendicitis Symptoms

After developing appendicitis, any delays in its treatment can make developing complications more likely, including:

• Delay seeking medical attention because of abdominal pain.

• Delaying the surgery when it is needed.

• Incomplete courses of prescribed antibiotics.

• Disregard symptoms like fever or increased pain after surgery.

• Early return to strenuous activity after surgery.

• Poor wound care after surgery.

Appendicitis Treatment Cost in India

The cost of appendicitis in India will depend on the severity of the disease, the type of hospital, the city, and the treatment method. Uncomplicated appendicitis that can be managed through medication and observation will cost approximately ₹5,000 - ₹20,000. Laparoscopic appendicectomy, which is the most commonly used method for treating appendicitis, will cost ₹40,000 - ₹2,00,000.

In cases of complicated appendicitis, such as appendiceal perforation, abscess drainage, intensive care, and prolonged stay in hospital, the treatment will cost ₹1.5 lakh to ₹3 lakh. Diagnostic investigations like blood test, ultrasound and CT scan will cost approximately ₹2,000 - ₹15,000.

Does Health Insurance Cover Appendicitis Treatment in India?

Yes. Appendicitis treatment is covered under most health insurance policies in India after serving the applicable waiting period. Coverage may include hospitalisation expenses, diagnostic charges, doctor consultations, pre & post-hospitalisation expenses, etc. However, the exact coverage may vary depending on the plan coverage and benefits.

Moreover, government insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY provide health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year in case of hospitalisation and surgery resulting from appendicitis.