Stool disorder, like a red indicator light, signals dysfunction of the body, and primarily the digestive system. Different pathological conditions have their own characteristic signs, based on which a conclusion is made. Diarrhea with appendicitis is not a specific symptom of inflammation of the appendix, but it still occurs in certain cases.
What is appendicitis
The first section of the large intestine is the cecum. A special process departs from it - the appendix, 5-12 cm long - in an adult. This small appendage of the cecum performs important functions in the body:
- The lymphatic tissue concentrated in it resists harmful agents that penetrate the intestines - viruses, bacteria, yeast and mold.
- The isolated position of the appendix prevents intestinal contents from entering it. Thanks to this, it creates an ideal environment for the growth and reproduction of beneficial bacteria. Microorganisms grown on a kind of “farm” quickly colonize the intestines in the event of loss of the symbiotic biocenosis after illness or treatment with antibiotics.
Blockage of the lumen of the appendage provokes rapid growth of microflora, which begins to “eat” the walls of its container, causing inflammation of the appendix of the cecum. According to doctors, the main causes of blockage of the appendiceal inlet are:
- Fecal stones due to chronic constipation.
- Intestinal neoplasms.
- Clusters of helminths.
- Adhesive processes of the abdominal and pelvic cavity organs.
As a rule, there is an acute course of the process, developing at lightning speed in 2-12 hours. Lack of surgical care threatens a complication in the form of diffuse purulent peritonitis with a fatal outcome.
How to recognize appendicitis
Unfortunately, no one is immune from appendicitis - neither children, nor women, nor men. The risk of acute pathology in old age is reduced due to the gradual fusion of the lumen of the appendage. Diarrhea does not occur with appendicitis in all cases and is not a specific sign of the disease, but the combination of several symptoms indicates inflammation of the appendix with a high degree of probability.
The disease can be recognized if:
- not very severe pain in the umbilical area. Gradually, the abdominal pain intensifies and moves to the right hypochondrium. The rapid development of inflammation causes gangrene and death of the appendage. If the pain suddenly stops, the appendix may have ruptured and purulent contents have spilled throughout the abdominal cavity;
- poisoning with the products of the inflammatory process of appendicitis causes a typical picture of intoxication - nausea, vomiting. Sometimes they may be accompanied by diarrhea due to appendicitis. Mucus and blood are found in liquid feces;
- diarrhea occurs when the appendix is located in the loop-shaped bends of the large intestine. Inflammation spreads to the cecum, absorption of fluid and nutrients worsens. The food lump is excreted in a semi-digested form, the feces are not formed;
- most often diarrhea accompanies the onset of appendicitis in children under 3 years of age;
- when vomiting, nausea, loose stools are accompanied by a persistent lack of appetite, doctors first diagnose inflammation of the appendix;
- body temperature rises no higher than 38 °C. A rapid increase in fever indicates the approach of a tragic outcome - purulent peritonitis;
- the tongue becomes covered with a white coating, the mouth is dry.
The final diagnosis will be made by the doctor by palpating the abdomen, examining the tongue, and measuring pressure and temperature. It is vitally important to call an ambulance as soon as possible, minutes count. Try to describe the most complete picture of your symptoms to the emergency substation operator. Refrain from displaying excessive emotionality, they will prevent you from understanding the true state of affairs. Timely first aid provided by professionals will save a person’s life.
It is necessary to distinguish appendicitis from other anomalies of the body - Crohn's disease, inflammation of the ovary in women, torsion of the testicle or strangulated inguinal hernia in men, gastroenteritis, poisoning.
Postoperative period
Diarrhea after removal of appendicitis is a completely understandable phenomenon. It develops for the following reasons:
- The use of antibiotics after surgical removal of the inflamed appendage kills the symbiotic microflora. The intestines are inhabited by conditionally pathogenic microbes - clostridia, staphylococci, putrefactive bacteria.
- The appendix, which plays the role of a “reserve” of beneficial bacteria and a protector from harmful microflora, has been removed. It is much more difficult for the body to restore normal intestinal biocenosis.
- The food after appendicitis in the hospital is monotonous, poor in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You cannot eat for the first 12 hours after surgery, then a few sips of boiled water are allowed.
What to eat after appendectomy
Diet is very important to restore normal digestive function. It is observed for two weeks and is distinguished by the following principles:
- Meals are distributed 5-6 times a day, in portions of 150-200 g. The dishes are warm, at a temperature of 40-50 °C;
- For two days after the operation they eat broth - chicken, rice, potato. They drink boiled water, table mineral water, compotes from dried apples, rosehip decoction;
- then the menu includes pureed liquid soups based on chicken, potatoes, rice, zucchini, carrots, pumpkin;
- after a week, liquid boiled porridge with half-and-half milk is allowed - rice, semolina, buckwheat. Boiled, pureed vegetables - potatoes, carrots, beets, zucchini, pumpkin. You can puree baked apples and pears without sugar. Include low-fat fermented milk products in the diet - kefir, cottage cheese.
For comprehensive recommendations on postoperative nutrition, consult doctors: a therapist and a gastroenterologist. Doctors will select the appropriate combination of products, taking into account your individual medical history.
Treatment of diarrhea after surgery
Loose stools after surgery are caused by an imbalance of beneficial microflora. Special preparations called probiotics are designed to help the intestines overcome harmful agents. The product contains vacuum-dried bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in a gelatin capsule. The swallowed capsule passes through the stomach and is destroyed in the intestines. Bacteria come to life in a humid environment and multiply, displacing pathogens. Pharmacy chains offer a wide range of probiotics for the treatment of diarrhea - Linex, Normobact, Acipol, Eubicor, Bifidumbacterin and others.
Some doctors argue that the benefits of pharmaceutical products are greatly exaggerated, and suggest replenishing the microflora by including fermented milk products and sauerkraut in the menu. Prebiotics, a nutrient substrate for beneficial bacteria, are designed to increase the effectiveness of probiotics. You can get them from food, leaning on fiber-rich vegetables and fruits. Home remedies, such as chamomile decoctions, infusions of pomegranate peels, oak bark, will soothe irritated intestines, gently relieve inflammation, and increase local immunity.
Appendicitis is an acute surgical disease. Without proper treatment it can be fatal. Diarrhea more often occurs after removal of the appendage; it is associated with the death of beneficial flora. Doctors' advice, adherence to a diet, and restoration of normal intestinal biocenosis will help to avoid postoperative complications.
The information on our website is provided by qualified doctors and is for informational purposes only. Don't self-medicate! Be sure to consult a specialist!
Author: Rumyantsev V. G. Experience 34 years.
Gastroenterologist, professor, doctor of medical sciences. Prescribes diagnostics and carries out treatment. Expert of the group for the study of inflammatory diseases. Author of more than 300 scientific papers.
Appendicitis is an inflammatory disease of the appendix of the cecum. One of the dangerous symptoms of the pathology is diarrhea, which is often accompanied by severe pain in the lower abdomen on the right, pallor of the skin, and fever. Diarrhea can also occur after surgery, as an allergy to medications or a disorder of the intestinal microflora. As a rule, diarrhea with appendicitis goes away on its own after surgery, but if it occurs after surgery or during antibacterial therapy, probiotics are required.
Types of operations
The rehabilitation time directly depends on the volume of surgical operations and the place where they were performed. An important component in this process is the patient's general health, his age and how carefully he will follow the doctor's recommendations. To avoid complications, the doctor prescribes a specific diet for each case, because food will immediately come into contact with the diseased area.
The patient needs to adjust physical activity and take hygiene seriously. Treat the suture and bone fracture in a timely manner if part of the organ has been removed.
The patient's recovery rate after surgery depends on the type of surgery and the volume of intestine removed.
Breathing exercises
All surgical patients are always prescribed breathing exercises: forced inhalations, exhalations, or inflating a balloon. Such exercises help adequately ventilate the lungs and prevent the development of complications (bronchitis, pneumonia). Breathing exercises should be done as often as possible, especially if the period of bed rest is prolonged.
Anesthesia
The duration of taking analgesics and their type depends on the severity of the pain syndrome, which is often determined by the type of operation (laparotomy or laparoscopic). After open interventions, patients usually receive intramuscular narcotic analgesics (for example, droperidol) for the first 1-2 days, then are transferred to non-narcotic drugs (ketorolac).
After laparoscopic operations, recovery is faster, and while still in the hospital, many patients are transferred to tablet forms of drugs (ketanov, diclofenac).
Postoperative sutures are inspected and processed every day, and the bandage is also changed frequently. The patient should monitor the scars and try not to scratch or get them wet. If the stitches begin to come apart, become red and swollen, bleeding develops, or the pain is too severe, you should immediately inform the medical staff.
Physiotherapy
The approach to each patient is strictly individual. Of course, both the patient and the doctor are interested in early verticalization (the ability to stand up) and independent walking. However, the patient receives permission to even sit up in bed only when his condition really allows it.
At first, a set of tasks is assigned to perform while lying in bed (some movements with the arms and legs). Then the training scheme is expanded, exercises are gradually introduced to strengthen the abdominal wall (after the surgeon makes sure that the stitches are intact).
When the patient begins to walk independently, the set of exercises includes walking around the ward and corridor for a total duration of up to 2 hours.
Physiotherapy
All patients receive food 6-8 times a day in small portions. All food must comply with the principle of thermal, chemical and mechanical sparing of the gastrointestinal tract. Enteral formulas and initial surgical diets should be warm, liquid or jelly-like.
Surgery without removing part of the intestine
Such patients recover quite quickly. They are prescribed parenteral nutrition (glucose solution) for the first 1-2 days. Already on the third day, special adapted mixtures are introduced into the food regimen, and after 5-7 days, most patients can eat the dishes prescribed to all surgical patients. As the condition improves, a transition occurs from diet No. 0a to diet No. 1 (unprocessed version).
Dietary recommendations after combined treatment are strictly individual and selected by the attending physician. This may be due to both the nature of the tumor process and the presence of side effects.
In this video, you will learn about the foods that are recommended to eat for recovery after surgery.
Depending on what type of colon surgery is performed, the patient will have a different recovery period, treatment and rehabilitation plan after the operation. To avoid complications and dangerous consequences, patients are advised to undergo preparation and cleansing procedures, which are agreed upon with the doctor, and if the patient experiences discomfort, it is necessary to immediately report it.
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Patients who are candidates for cholecystectomy are puzzled by the question of what happens after the operation and how the biliary system functions in the absence of the gallbladder. To understand what the quality of life will be like after surgery, you need to understand how fats are digested without a gallbladder.
Rectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. This pathology ranks 4th in the domestic structure of the incidence of malignant tumors in men (5.7%) and 2nd place in women (7.2%).
Breathing exercises
Rehabilitation includes performing breathing exercises. The patient performs inhalations and exhalations under the supervision of a doctor, because they affect well-being, and incorrect execution will lead to worsening of the condition, nausea, and vomiting.
Breathing exercises are important in cases where the patient has had a major operation and needs a long recovery period. Proper breathing will prevent the development of pneumonia and respiratory problems.
After colon surgery, the doctor prescribes medications that help get rid of pain and inflammation. These are analgesic drugs that are classified by type, depending on the intensity of the effect.
Physiotherapy
Physical activity will help restore organ function, improve digestion, regulate weight and improve condition during the rehabilitation process. The sooner the patient begins to move, the easier it is to start the body.
But you need to remember that not everyone is recommended to do the exercises right away. If the patient's condition is severe or moderate, the doctor will first recommend doing light warm-up exercises, but they are performed lying down, without exerting effort.
When the patient’s health improves, the nausea subsides, the temperature drops, the doctor will select another set of physical activity. You need to force yourself to warm up regularly, then recovery will be faster.
In the intensive care unit, a person returns from anesthesia to a normal state. After the operation, the patient is prescribed analgesics to relieve discomfort and pain in the abdominal cavity.
The doctor may prescribe injection anesthesia (epidural or spinal). To do this, drugs that relieve pain are introduced into their body using droppers.
A special drainage is placed in the area of the surgical wound, which is needed to drain the accumulated excess fluid, and after a couple of days it is removed.
One of the stages of the operation is the creation of a colostomy, an artificial anal passage. In some cases, after surgery there is no need for such a passage, but sometimes a colostomy is left, and in this case it is especially important for the patient to learn to control the process of defecation. Naturally, many reflexes are developed by a rationally selected diet.
During the period of preparation for surgery, you should follow a balanced diet. Proper nutrition for colorectal cancer will help maintain the overall level of immunity and saturate the body with substances that help stop the growth of new cancer cells in the body.
Rectal cancer
Characteristic symptoms of appendicitis
Depending on the stage of development, appendicitis is accompanied by a different clinical picture. At the first (catarrhal) stage there are no signs of the disease. The second (superficial) stage is accompanied by severe pain in the area where the appendix is located: on the right side of the lower abdomen.
At the third (phlegmonous) stage, the inflammatory process involves all layers of the appendix. The patient develops diarrhea or constipation, nausea and vomiting, and an increase in body temperature. The fourth (ulcerative) stage is accompanied by the formation of ulcers on the intestinal walls, and there is a risk of rupture of the caecum.
Gangrenous (fifth) stage of appendicitis is diagnosed extremely rarely and is characterized by rupture of appendix tissue and discharge of purulent contents into the abdominal cavity. Due to the development of medical technologies, the disease is recognized at stages 2-3, which allows timely assistance to the patient.
Appendicitis is also accompanied by pale skin, chills and the formation of a white coating on the tongue.
Why does diarrhea occur with cancer?
The use of certain methods of anti-cancer treatment, as well as other factors in the course of cancer, can cause diarrhea:
- The action of the tumor itself, which produces hormones and chemicals (paraneoplastic syndrome).
- Chemotherapy irritates the lining of the digestive system. Complications usually occur in the first days. Dangerous medications contain fluoropyrimidines or irinotecan.
- Radiotherapy in the pelvis and anus. Defecation sometimes occurs together with flatulence and cramps.
- Infections that weaken the immune system along with cancer.
- Side effects of drugs, in particular some types of antibiotics, antiemetics, laxatives, medications containing magnesium.
Diarrhea due to stomach cancer
It can be provoked both by the neoplasm itself and by its treatment, in particular:
- the production of hormones that stimulate the colon to secrete water;
- infections that interfere with the functioning of the organ;
- antibiotics that can change the composition of normal bacteria in the intestines;
- patients after surgery who have a reduced ability to digest food. In this regard, chronic bacteria are formed.
Diarrhea due to bowel cancer
Evacuations are not only frequent, but are also characterized by the following conditions:
- mucus is released;
- feces begin to take on a small-caliber or ribbon-like shape. This means that the formation compresses the internal space of the intestines and prevents the passage of feces;
- abdominal cramps appear. May indicate an intestinal obstruction, a blockage that blocks blood circulation. Depending on the severity, a spasm occurs in the abdomen. Painful and bloody discharge indicates that the neoplasm is perforating the intestinal wall.
Causes of diarrhea with appendicitis
Diarrhea due to appendicitis is extremely rare and often leads to incorrect diagnosis. Inflammatory pathology is accompanied by constipation or rare loose stools no more than 2 times, as a rule, until the formation of a persistent clinical picture characteristic of appendicitis. Diarrhea in the acute period of appendicitis is:
- response to the inflammatory process and irritation of the peritoneum;
- the result of impaired absorption of fluid in the intestine;
- addition of infection;
- disruption of the natural environment of the intestine;
- relapse of chronic diseases against the background of decreased immunity due to appendicitis.
Diarrhea as a symptom of appendicitis
Loose stools can cause dozens of disorders. This is such a common problem, almost everyday, that rarely does anyone immediately start sounding the alarm. Therein lies a great danger. Severe diarrhea is in any case a sign of inflammation or viral infection.
Appendicitis, like any disease, develops in several stages. Mainly, you need to pay close attention to the accompanying symptoms. Acute appendicitis is characterized by the following problems:
- constant dull pain of increasing nature;
- nausea and vomiting;
- strong white coating on the tongue;
- dry mouth;
- temperature increase by 1.5-2 degrees.
Diarrhea with appendicitis is observed infrequently and is not a mandatory manifestation of the disease. That is why its presence can be confusing and lead to an incorrect initial diagnosis.
In the case of acute appendicitis, diarrhea may simply not have time to manifest itself, since this form of the disease is very short-lived: 1-2 days. On the contrary, with chronic appendicitis, stool disorders are much more common.
- 1 What is an upset stomach?
- 2 What can cause stomach upset?
- 3 The cause of frequent disorders is illness
- 4 Characteristic symptoms
- 5 Examination methods
- 6 Treatment of illness 6.1 Medicines
- 6.2 Folk remedies
- 6.3 Dietary diet
Everyone has probably had an upset stomach at least once, as this is one of the most common ailments. There are several names for the pathological process.
In medicine, the term "dyspepsia" is often used, but among people it is common diarrhea. Most often, the condition is not associated with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, but this is not always the case.
Therefore, if a symptom bothers you frequently, you should definitely consult a doctor.
What is an upset stomach?
Since the most obvious manifestation of indigestion is diarrhea, almost every person without medical knowledge thinks that they are the same thing. But few people pay attention to the fact that the condition is accompanied by other symptoms that are considered to be caused by diarrhea. The pathological process is classified into 2 types:
- functional stomach disorder;
- organic dysfunction of the stomach.
Gastric arrest is a temporary disruption of the organ, which can be caused by a number of reasons: an infectious process, a somatic disease or overeating. Stomach upset is especially dangerous for young children because they quickly become dehydrated, requiring emergency medical attention.
Causes
Violation of the motor function of the gastrointestinal tract is accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, which are often associated with the causes of the disease.
Features of diarrhea during the development of appendicitis
Diarrhea can accompany stage 1, the asymptomatic stage of the disease, as well as stages 2 and 3, when appendix tissue is involved in the inflammatory process.
Appendicitis with the usual location of the cecum
With the usual location of the appendix, appendicitis can be recognized by severe pain, loss of appetite, nausea, single diarrhea and vomiting. The patient's general condition is satisfactory, body temperature is within normal limits. As the pathological process progresses, nausea and abdominal pain increase, body temperature rises, and there is no diarrhea.
Retrocecal appendicitis
This species is characterized by an unusual location of the appendix. It can be localized behind the cecum, adjacent to the kidney or muscular system in the lumbar region.
In this case, the pain syndrome is migrating in nature. Nausea and vomiting are extremely rare. The peculiarity of this type of appendicitis is mushy diarrhea, as a result of irritation of the intestine by the caecum. With retrocecal appendicitis, diuresis disturbances are also possible along with diarrhea.
Pelvic appendicitis
In this case, the appendix is located in the small pelvis. Due to the non-physiological localization of the appendix, the clinical picture is pronounced. The pain syndrome covers the entire abdominal cavity and pelvis, urination becomes more frequent. Diarrhea with appendicitis is repeated, mushy consistency or watery. It is possible to separate clots and streaks of blood and mucus.
Pelvic appendicitis occurs more often in women and misleads doctors when making a diagnosis. Differential diagnosis of appendicitis, pathologies of the urinary system and intestinal infections is necessary.
Features of diarrhea after appendicitis
Diarrhea after removal of appendicitis while following a special diet is considered normal and is associated with a large intake of liquid food. In this case, the patient does not experience discomfort, the number of bowel movements does not exceed 5 times a day, the temperature is within normal limits, and there is no nausea or vomiting.
However, if loose stools after appendicitis are accompanied by other symptoms, this may be a sign of other pathological processes in the body.
If diarrhea after surgical removal of the appendix lasts more than 3 days, this is a sign of serious pathologies, which should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Allergy to medications
As a rule, before surgery, the patient is obliged to warn surgeons and anesthesiologists about individual intolerance to drugs. If there is one, the patient’s medical history contains references to atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma and other manifestations of allergies.
However, diarrhea after surgery may be associated with the development of specific immune sensitivity to the drugs administered for pain relief before surgery, as well as after the intervention to restore the body and prevent infection.
Allergies to medications include diarrhea after appendicitis surgery, which is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, severe abdominal pain and bloating. When passing stool, mucus and blood may be found.
In addition, allergies can cause rhinitis, cough, swelling of the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity and oropharynx, rashes on the dermis and mucous membranes, itching, hyperthermia of low-grade marks, aches and muscle pain.
Dysbacteriosis
Intestinal dysbiosis develops as a result of an imbalance of the natural intestinal microflora against the background of the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and a decrease in the number of beneficial lactobacilli.
Dysbacteriosis after successful surgical treatment of inflammation of appendicitis is accompanied by diarrhea or constipation, which can also alternate. Feces have:
- sour or putrid odor;
- yellow, green or yellow-green color;
- mushy consistency interspersed with mucus.
In addition, the patient may complain of nausea, poor appetite, bloating and heartburn.
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
Diarrhea occurs after surgical removal of the appendix of the cecum as a result of taking or intravenous administration of antibacterial drugs that suppress the activity of not only pathogenic microorganisms, but also beneficial bacteria. This in turn disrupts the balance of the microflora of the digestive organs.
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is a type of intestinal dysbiosis. Accompanied by the development of diarrhea with impurities of blood and mucus. The frequency of bowel movements reaches 30 times a day. Along with diarrhea, flatulence, intestinal pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness and fever may occur.
Frequent bowel movements lead to dehydration and are dangerous to the health and life of the patient.
Diarrhea after IV
Diarrhea after a drip is associated with intolerance to drugs administered intravenously. In the postoperative period, antibacterial drugs are infused intravenously to stop and prevent the development of the inflammatory process. Antibiotics, when entering the body, fight not only pathogenic microflora, but also suppress the activity of lactobacilli, which leads to imbalance and diarrhea.
After surgery, rehydration solutions are also administered intravenously to help replenish the deficiency of water and electrolytes. A large dosage of the drug leads to an increase in fluid in the body, which can cause dilution of the stool - diarrhea occurs.
Diarrhea after anesthesia
Diarrhea occurs after anesthesia, which is associated with individual intolerance to the drug that is used for pain relief in the preoperative period. In this case, diarrhea is a manifestation of an allergy.
Diarrhea and vomiting after anesthesia after removal of appendicitis may indicate the development of an inflammatory process in the abdominal cavity or be the result of stress that the body suffered during the operation.
What complications can there be?
Any operation is associated with risks and complications. Appendectomy may be accompanied by severe blood loss, which depends on the skill of the doctor. There may be breathing problems, especially if the right side or wound hurts a lot. This is due to the inability to breathe deeply, which can lead to hypoxia. Bloating and urinary retention due to the use of muscle relaxants can provoke urinary or intestinal paresis.
Of course, doctors set themselves the task of eliminating all complications after appendicitis removal, but sometimes they simply cannot be avoided.
Below are the most common consequences of appendicitis.
In this case, there are ruptures in the walls of the appendix. Its contents will end up in the abdominal cavity, and this provokes sepsis of other organs.
The infection can be quite severe. A fatal end is not ruled out. Such perforation of the walls of appendicitis is observed in 8-10% of patients.
If it is purulent peritonitis, the risk of death is high, and exacerbation of symptoms cannot be ruled out. This complication after appendicitis occurs in 1% of patients.
These complications after surgery to remove appendicitis are observed in the case of adhesions of organs. The percentage of such cases is 3-5.
The development of complications begins 3-5 days after the formation of the disease. Accompanied by pain of unclear localization.
Over time, the pain subsides, and the contours of the inflamed area appear in the abdominal cavity.
The infiltrate with inflammation acquires pronounced boundaries and a dense structure, and tension in nearby muscles will also be observed.
In about 2 weeks the swelling will go away and the pain will stop. The temperature will also subside, and blood counts will return to normal.
In many cases, it is possible that the inflamed part after appendicitis will cause the development of an abscess. It will be discussed below.
Abscess
The disease develops against the background of suppuration of the appendiceal infiltrate or surgery if peritonitis is diagnosed.
As a rule, it takes 8-12 days for the disease to develop. All abscesses need to be covered and debrided.
In order to improve the outflow of pus, doctors install drainage. During the treatment of complications after appendicitis, it is customary to use antibacterial drug therapy.
If there is a similar complication after appendicitis, urgent surgery is necessary.
After this, the patient will have to wait for a long rehabilitation period, accompanied by drug treatment.
Intestinal fistulas
Treatment
At the first signs of diarrhea with severe pain in the appendix area, nausea, you should consult a specialist. When appendicitis is diagnosed, surgery is prescribed. Stopping the inflammatory process allows you to cope with diarrhea.
If a patient has diarrhea after laparoscopy on the caecum, medications are prescribed to help cope with diarrhea and improve the patient’s general condition.
In case of severe dehydration, rehydration solutions are prescribed intravenously or orally to help replenish the deficiency of fluid, salts and electrolytes.
To remove toxins and prevent dehydration, sorbents are prescribed, among which the most effective are: Smecta, Polysorb, Enterosgel, Activated carbon. The latter drug is not used in children under 3 years of age. The dosage is calculated based on the patient’s body weight.
To restore intestinal microflora and prevent dysbiosis, probiotics are prescribed, which contain bacteria beneficial to the gastrointestinal tract: Linex, Bifidumbacterin, Hilak Forte, Acipol.
If the digestion process of food is disrupted, the patient is prescribed enzymes: Pancreatin, Mezim, Creon. The drugs are indicated for the treatment of enzyme deficiency in adults and children over 3 years of age.
To reduce intestinal motility, on the recommendation of a doctor, drugs with loperamide (Loperamide, Diara, Imodium) can be used. Medicines act quickly, reduce the speed of movement of feces through the intestines and increase the tone of the anus, which reduces the number of urges to defecate.
When the first symptoms appear, you can supplement drug treatment with traditional medicine, which, thanks to its astringent and antiseptic properties, will speed up the healing process. For this purpose, use an infusion of St. John's wort, a decoction of rice or oak bark.
To prepare the first one, just pour 1 tbsp. l. St. John's wort 1 tbsp. water and leave for an hour. Divide the resulting volume into 3 doses.
To prepare rice water, pour the cereal or rice flour with water in a ratio of 1:7. Take 50-100 ml three times a day.
Oak bark decoction: pour 1 tbsp. water 80 g of bark, bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Filter and add a glass of water. Drink after meals 3 times a day.
Treatment of diarrhea
- Among the antidiarrheal drugs most often prescribed are Loperamide and Immodium.
- To normalize fluid levels and prevent dehydration, it is recommended to take a water-salt solution – “Regidron”.
- To improve the functioning of the digestive system in adult patients, a course of drugs with a high lipase content is required, for example, Pancreatin, Pancitrate, Creon, etc.
- Natural sorbents will help remove accumulated toxins in the body and cure diarrhea after appendicitis removal. Such medications include the drugs “Enterosgel” and “Smecta”.
- To eliminate problems with stool caused by microflora disturbances after taking antibiotics, doctors prescribe a course of probiotics: Bifiform, Linex, Rotabiotic, Enerogermina.
- If the cause of diarrhea is an infection, then it is possible to use the intestinal antiseptic Nifuroxazide.
Treatment for diarrhea is necessary if it continues. In some cases, stool returns to normal due to the action of antibiotics, which are prescribed after surgery to restore the body. But it also happens the other way around, when antibacterial therapy in combination with painkillers provokes a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. In this case, the course of antibiotics should be changed.
As support, special medications are prescribed for diarrhea after appendectomy. These drugs include a wide range of pharmaceutical prebiotics and probiotics, which contain beneficial bacteria similar to natural ones and help normalize the intestinal microflora.
Since complex treatment is prescribed, you cannot engage in amateur activities. All medications are prescribed strictly by a doctor and are adjusted as the patient’s condition changes. In some cases, alternative treatment for diarrhea after appendicitis can be used to alleviate the condition. Among folk remedies, herbal decoctions that prevent stool liquefaction have a positive effect.
As a rule, diarrhea and other unpleasant symptoms appear when a patient who has had their gallbladder removed returns home. This happens because the patient violates nutritional rules.
According to medical statistics, overweight people more often need surgery. They get tired of the monotonous menu and return to their previous diet, believing that the danger is now behind them. However, this opinion is erroneous. After a few days, the patient develops diarrhea, loses weight and fluid, and his condition worsens.
Self-medication in the event of a postoperative complication in the form of prolonged diarrhea is strictly contraindicated. The patient should know that self-treatment of any postoperative complications is not an easy task and requires serious attention from both the doctor and the patient.
In such cases, the specialist pays special attention to constant monitoring and examination of the patient, draws up an individual treatment plan, which can be expressed in the form of a sequential scheme of actions:
- in-depth examination by a doctor and drawing up an individual treatment plan based on the results obtained;
- treatment;
- secondary examination after 2 or 3 weeks;
- determining the results of treatment effectiveness and making possible adjustments to the treatment plan;
- monitoring the development of complications dynamics.
From this it is clear that constant monitoring and examination of the patient by a specialist is an absolute necessity.
Symptoms of dolichosigma
Before you begin treatment for diarrhea due to cancer, you need to determine the exact cause of the diarrhea. Therapy must be selected taking into account the stage and severity of the underlying disease. Folk remedies can also be used for treatment, but only after consulting a doctor. Medications and special gymnastics are also used.
Medical
Any medications for cancer patients should be prescribed only by a specialist. To treat diarrhea in oncology, complex therapy is used, which may include the following groups of drugs:
- intestinal inhibitors such as Enkephalin and its analogues, Lomotil, Imodium and others;
- agents that remove toxins, for example, activated carbon or various clays;
- antisecretory medications: berberine, octreotide acetate and others;
- antispasmodic drugs: Buscopan, hyoscine butyl bromide;
- glucose;
- amino acids and others.
Folk
Diet
After surgical treatment of appendicitis, to prevent diarrhea, you should follow a special diet based on the following recommendations:
- eat 5-6 times a day in small portions, food temperature should be no more than 50 C;
- during the first 48 hours after surgery, the basis of the diet should be chicken and vegetable broth, mineral water, rosehip decoction and apple compote;
- on the 3rd day after the operation, the menu includes chicken broth soup with potatoes, rice, pumpkin, carrots, and zucchini;
- on the 7th day after laparoscopic removal of appendicitis, you can introduce mucous porridges prepared in water or diluted milk, boiled vegetables, baked apples and pears, kefir and cottage cheese with a low fat content.
To prevent irritation of the intestinal mucous membranes, all products should be consumed pureed during the first 2 weeks.
During the recovery period after appendicitis, you should avoid butter, sauces, mayonnaise, eggs, alcohol, carbonated drinks, as well as fried, smoked, salty and spicy foods.
Why do you need a diet after appendectomy?
As a rule, recovery from appendicitis lasts at least 0.5 months.
The recovery period depends on how successfully the operation was performed, what method was used, how the body responded to the intervention, and the severity of the situation. After removal of purulent or gangrenous appendicitis, especially one that has turned into peritonitis, the rehabilitation period is longer, since there is a need to combat the infection that has developed, which includes long-term use of antibacterial drugs.
Today, appendectomy is performed by laparoscopy or abdominal surgery. Laparoscopic intervention is possible if the organ is inflamed, but tissue rupture has not yet occurred. This easy surgical treatment option provides for recovery after appendicitis removal within 2 weeks, less often 4.
Following a diet in the early and late postoperative period solves several problems at once:
- provides mechanical and chemical sparing of the intestines;
- restores metabolism in the body;
- helps increase immune strength;
- improves tissue regeneration at the surgical site.
Prevention
After surgery, the following preventive recommendations will help improve the patient’s condition:
- refusal to eat solid foods;
- exclusion of preservatives;
- eating boiled rice, mashed potatoes, broths;
- exclusion of fatty meats in favor of dietary types (turkey, chicken);
- when introducing fermented milk products, give preference to low-fat ones;
- sufficient fluid intake;
- bed rest.
Diarrhea with appendicitis is usually quite rare. Severe diarrhea may indicate an abnormal location of the cecum. After surgery, diarrhea can be the result of dysbacteriosis, allergies to medications, or a consequence of taking antibiotics. For treatment, probiotics, sorbents, rehydration solutions, enzymes and drugs to slow down intestinal motility are prescribed. Diet plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea after appendicitis.
Surgical intervention in the gastrointestinal tract, in particular removal of appendicitis, large or small intestine, leads to side effects and sometimes complications. One of these negative companions is diarrhea after surgery. Normalization of intestinal functions is a long process, requiring complex therapy and compliance with preventive measures.
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- Drink a lot of clear liquid (natural juices from apricot, peach, pear, cranberry, grape; broths).
- Eat soft foods low in fiber: bananas, poached or boiled eggs, potatoes without butter, rice, toast.
- Eat often and in small portions.
- Eat foods high in potassium as it can be lost by the body.
- Try using probiotics - beneficial bacteria that help restore normal digestion. They are found naturally in yoghurts and kefir. Also available in pharmacological preparations.
- Avoid foods that irritate the gastrointestinal tract: alcohol, caffeine, cabbage, orange and plum juices, etc.
Common Causes of Diarrhea After Surgery
Before resection of the intestine, measures are taken to cleanse it with the help of laxatives, enemas, and colon hydrotherapy. The need to get rid of fecal matter is caused by the risk of infection and complications. Diarrhea after surgery occurs when the dosage of drugs that increase intestinal peristalsis is not observed.
A “slag-free” diet, prescribed at least three days before surgery, also causes loose stools. Diarrhea appears as a reaction to anesthesia. The use of high-quality anesthetics does not exclude the possibility of general intoxication in a weakened body. To get rid of poisons, self-purification occurs, expressed in diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Diarrhea is not considered a complication if it is moderate and short-lived (no more than three days). The stool should not contain foreign impurities in the form of mucus or streaks of blood.
Diarrhea is caused by taking antibacterial medications after surgery. If there is a prolonged period of impaired bowel movements, the doctor assesses the risks, revises the prescribed therapy, reducing the dose or discontinuing the drug that negatively affects the intestinal microflora.
The patient may be admitted to the hospital with impaired peristalsis due to dysbacteriosis, inflammation of the pancreas, or colitis.
Diarrhea that lasts more than three days or is accompanied by blood is a reason to examine the patient and identify the causes of complications.
Diarrhea and fever
If the postoperative period is accompanied by diarrhea and fever in the first days, this indicates the body’s response to surgery.
Hyperthermia appears during healing of the wound surface, installation of drainage, and normalizes on its own after eliminating the causes.
Fever and diarrhea accompany the patient before and after surgery with purulent appendicitis and inflamed intestines. In this case, antibiotics are prescribed. Painful signs arise as a response of immune cells to anesthetics that cause intoxication of the body.
Various types of infections enter the body during surgery if the sterility of the surgical field is not achieved or the intestines are not cleaned well enough. Inflammation and suppuration of the wound begins. The doctor prescribes a comprehensive examination to determine the type of complication. Treatment is reviewed, and in some cases, repeat surgery is required.
Weakened immune defense increases the risk of contracting infectious diseases accompanied by diarrhea and fever.
The causes of complications are caused by:
- hospital infection;
- doctors' mistakes;
- unhealthy diet;
- exacerbation of concomitant diseases due to weakened immune defense;
- traumatic operation;
- suture defects, drainage;
- inadequate postoperative therapy.
The duration of the temperature is influenced by the method of surgical intervention. With a classic incision, the wound takes longer to heal than punctures during laparoscopy; therefore, painful symptoms last for a longer period.
After appendicitis surgery
Inflammation of the appendix of the cecum is not always detected at the initial stage. The symptoms are similar to those of intestinal protrusion near the appendix, inflammation of the appendages, and right kidney. Severe pain on the right indicates pancreatitis, hernia, obstruction, colitis. In any case, consult a doctor for early diagnosis of the disease. If the visit to the surgeon is delayed, serious complications arise in the form of peritonitis.
The occurrence of diarrhea after appendicitis surgery is due to the influence of anesthesia, residual inflammation of the mucous membrane, and prescribed antibacterial therapy. More often, the reason lies in severe intoxication of the body due to inflammation of the peritoneum.
Fecal masses do not acquire the desired consistency due to a lack of food enzymes and the accumulation of altered tissues in the peritoneum.
Diarrhea continues with shortcomings in diet therapy. Disturbed intestinal microflora requires a sufficient amount of prebiotics to normalize the digestion process.
After intestinal surgery
The consequences depend on the type of surgery. When more than half of the small intestine is resected, short bowel syndrome occurs.
The absorption of nutrients is impaired, and a lack of vitamins and minerals appears in the body. One of the symptoms of this syndrome is intractable diarrhea after intestinal surgery, leading to weight loss.
In this condition, it is important to maintain a sufficient volume of fluid and use drugs that delay motility.
In other types of operations, loose stools are the reason for cleansing the body in case of poisoning with anesthetics and the breakdown of damaged tissues.
Diarrhea that lasts longer than three days is caused by infection of the wound and peritoneum and requires urgent action.
What to do
Moderate diarrhea is allowed as a possible reaction of the body to intervention, disruption of tissue integrity, and a consequence of bowel cleansing. Only the attending physician knows what to do in case of prolonged loose stools with foreign inclusions.
Since there is more than one reason leading to postoperative complications, the patient undergoes a comprehensive examination of the body. Based on the results, antibiotics, medications that normalize intestinal peristalsis, and enzymes for better digestibility of food are prescribed. Diet plays an important role in rehabilitation.
The patient is under constant medical supervision. After 2 weeks of treatment, if the diarrhea does not stop, a repeat, more in-depth examination is performed. If necessary, the treatment plan is adjusted.
If intestinal paresis (obstruction) occurs, it is quickly stopped.
Postoperative care includes timely sterile dressings, early getting up, and physical therapy. To avoid infection and suppuration of wounds, physical therapy (UVR) is performed.
The problem of bloating and diarrhea is solved with the help of sorbents.
The most dangerous symptom is blood clots in the stool. The resulting bleeding leads to repeated surgery.
Basic recommendations for the treatment of postoperative diarrhea
In the postoperative period, the main condition for successful relief of long-term disturbances of intestinal motility is a complete examination of the patient. In this case, the doctor will determine what tests the patient should undergo. This is necessary to exclude more serious complications, as well as to determine the cause that causes intestinal dysfunction. In addition, the tests will allow timely diagnosis of the appearance of an infection in the intestines or postoperative inflammation.
If the results of the analyzes do not reveal any serious pathological changes, the doctor will draw up a conservative treatment plan, which will include a diet, certain physical exercises to improve the tone of the pelvic floor muscles, and, if necessary, medications that eliminate the symptoms of diarrhea and improve digestion in such a difficult situation. period for the patient. If diarrhea is still caused by the development of an infection, the doctor usually prescribes certain antibiotics.
When diagnosing dysbiosis in a patient, the doctor temporarily limits the use of antibiotics and prescribes antifungals and vitamin B. In addition, the possibility of using drugs that act as biostimulants and systemic reparants should be determined. To restore the patient to normal stool during the postoperative period, the doctor may prescribe medications that normalize intestinal motility. Additionally, it is possible to use enzymes that regulate digestion.
Medications
During the recovery period, the task of the doctor and the patient is to bring intestinal motility to a normal state. Achieve normal absorption and assimilation of nutrients.
In the medical treatment of diarrhea, enzymes, drugs that regulate motility, and probiotics are used.
Antidiarrheal drugs that affect intestinal motility include;
Regidron saline solution replenishes lost fluid and balances electrolytes during loose stools.
If the cause of diarrhea is intoxication, enterosorbents are prescribed to help remove toxins:
If you have indigestion, take the following medications containing the enzymes protease, lipase, and amylase:
If prolonged diarrhea is caused by infection in the wound and peritoneum, antimicrobial therapy is prescribed. Antifungal drugs, antiseptics, sulfonamides, and fluoroquinolones are used. The choice of a group of drugs depends on the type of infection, and the specific drug depends on the clinical picture.
Probiotics Enterol, Linex, Bifiform, Probifor are suitable for restoring microflora.