“Since I had my appendix removed, I haven't really had an appetite. Is this normal?”
I haven't had an appetite since my appendix was removed two weeks ago. I really haven't ate much. Is this normal?
14 Answers
Many people over the age of 50 encounter loss of appetite. Even the smell of food bothers them. Some of the episodes last up to 3 weeks. Appetites can be restored; if one eats more than they desire, the appetite can slowly increase.
Usually, a regular, uncomplicated appendectomy, either laparoscopically or through a small right lower quadrant incision, should not affect the appetite. After mine, I couldn't wait to eat! If there is a post-operative abscess, then I can understand that affecting your appetite. Check your white blood cell count. If it is elevated, then further examination by the surgeon is indicated.
Normally, there is no link between appetite and an appendectomy. In early post-operative course, it's recommended to eat light, not too fatty, no big meals, and after 1 month, you can take a normal diet.
It is normal and better for you it is that way. Your body needs a chance to get over what you have been through. Do not rush yourself it should return soon. If you have the problem over 2 to 3 weeks see your doctor again
Each patient is different. The best situation would be an in person evaluation where you can express your concern and the physician can properly evaluate. If you are seeing a significant weight loss, pain increase, or other symptoms, make sure to discuss with your doctor.
Hi!
This is a very common and great question to ask.
Decrease appetite is very frequent after any type of surgery. It is repated to your body adjusting to the stress as a result from being sick and have surgery. It will get better with time and you will be back to normal appetite in about 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Carlos Gonzalez MD
This is a very common and great question to ask.
Decrease appetite is very frequent after any type of surgery. It is repated to your body adjusting to the stress as a result from being sick and have surgery. It will get better with time and you will be back to normal appetite in about 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Carlos Gonzalez MD
An ileus can develop from an intra abdominal infection. An ileus from a perforated appendicitis may be worse than a straight forward appendicitis. An ileus may cause a reduction in one’s appetite. An ileus may resolve in a couple of weeks, although normally in a few days. Antibiotics and IV received during treatments can also alter the appetite and perception of taste, although this usually lasts less than a week.
It can be normal. Simply going under anesthesia can alter appetite for up to 6 to 8 weeks. However, if you are having nausea vomiting or are not having bowel movements, it may be a sign of something wrong. Call your surgeon if you experience any of these symptoms of if something just doesn't seem right.
It depends on how bad your appendix was when it was removed. If you had significant inflammation or infection surrounding your appendix, it may take 2-6 weeks for the inflammation to resolve. Even if it was early with minimal inflammation, you may expect your bowel function to take a few weeks before it returns to "normal" function. If you are less active due to recovery from surgery, it will also affect your appetite. Narcotics given can slow your gut, thus decrease your appetite. Also, you were most likely given antibiotics for surgery that may alter your gut organisms, thus upsetting your "norm." I usually recommend taking probiotics or eating active culture yogurt after surgery to recolonize healthy bacteria in your gut. In any case, if your appetite does not return to normal in a few weeks, you should see your doctor to make sure you don't have a problem.
Not usually, but if your put on antibiotics after surgery some people can develop a bad taste in their mouth or loss of appetite. It’s should resolve in a few weeks
By now you should be having an appetite however everyone indifferent and if you are still on medication, antibiotics etc this can affect that. Make sure follow up with your surgeon and check.
After two weeks you should of a non complicated Appendectomy you should be able to have a normal diet.
This is pretty typical. It may take 4-6 weeks for your appetite to return. Most patients will lose 5-10 lbs after surgery, but almost all gain it back.
You don’t say how long is since the operation. If it is just a week try to eat light and your appetite gradually will start settling again.
Try to eat small amounts at least three time a day if your appetite is gone
Try to eat small amounts at least three time a day if your appetite is gone
