What to do if you have appendicitis with a fever of 38°C

In general, a fever of 38°C in appendicitis may be caused by the body's stress response, acute simple appendicitis, acute suppurative appendicitis, peri-appendiceal abscess, or mild obstruction of the appendiceal lumen. Patients can choose appropriate treatments such as conservative management, medication, or surgery based on their specific condition. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Body Stress Response

When inflammation occurs in the appendix, the body's immune system activates to fight pathogens, triggering a stress response that disrupts the temperature regulation center, leading to a fever of 38°C. Physical cooling methods such as wiping the forehead and armpits with lukewarm water can be used. Maintain good indoor ventilation and avoid excessive fatigue.

2. Acute Simple Appendicitis

Inflammation affects the mucosa and submucosa of the appendix. The release of inflammatory factors triggers a systemic reaction, causing a 38°C fever accompanied by mild abdominal pain. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or metronidazole tablets. A light diet is recommended during treatment, and strenuous activity should be avoided.

3. Acute Suppurative Appendicitis

The entire wall of the appendix is involved, with pus accumulating inside the lumen. Worsening inflammation stimulates the body, resulting in persistent fever at 38°C and intensified abdominal pain. Under medical supervision, antibiotics such as cefaclor capsules, levofloxacin tablets, or tinidazole tablets may be prescribed. If medication fails to control symptoms, laparoscopic or open appendectomy may be required.

4. Peri-appendiceal Abscess

Appendiceal inflammation spreads, leading to abscess formation in surrounding tissues. The abscess causes persistent fever of 38°C and a palpable mass in the right lower abdomen. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as cefoperazone-sulbactam sodium tablets, ornidazole tablets, or clindamycin capsules. For larger abscesses, ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage is necessary. Appendectomy is performed after inflammation is under control.

5. Mild Obstruction of the Appendiceal Lumen

The appendiceal lumen is slightly blocked by fecal stones or lymphoid hyperplasia, causing accumulation of secretions that irritate the wall and trigger local inflammatory reactions, leading to elevated body temperature. Bed rest is recommended, along with temporary fasting to reduce intestinal burden, adequate hydration, and close monitoring of changes in body temperature and abdominal pain.

Daily precautions include maintaining dietary hygiene and avoiding overeating, raw, cold, or spicy foods. Avoid vigorous exercise immediately after meals to reduce the risk of luminal obstruction. Seek prompt medical attention if symptoms such as abdominal pain or fever occur, and do not self-administer analgesics that may mask symptoms. After surgery, follow medical advice for proper wound care to promote healing and recovery.