Author: Dr. Denny Rodenberg, General Surgeon, Intercare Hospital
I didn’t wake up thinking I’d need surgery that day.
It started as something so minor I almost ignored it—a vague discomfort around my belly button. Not pain exactly, just… off. I went about my morning, had coffee, tried to eat a light breakfast, but something wasn’t right. By midday, the discomfort had sharpened and started drifting lower, settling into the right side of my abdomen.
That’s when I began to pay attention.
The Early Signs I Almost Dismissed
At first, I thought it might be something I ate. Maybe gas. Maybe a mild stomach bug. But the pain became more focused and persistent. It wasn’t coming in waves—it was just there, steady and increasingly sharp.
A few things stood out:
- I lost my appetite completely
- Moving—especially walking—made it worse
- Pressing on the area caused pain, but releasing it hurt even more
- I started to feel slightly feverish and fatigued
By late afternoon, I knew this wasn’t something to “wait out.”
The Decision to Seek Care
I debated going to the emergency department versus waiting for a clinic appointment. What tipped me was the progression. This wasn’t improving—it was escalating.
At the ED, the process was surprisingly efficient. Within minutes of triage, I was being asked detailed questions:
- When did the pain start?
- Where did it begin, and where is it now?
- Any nausea, vomiting, or fever?
Then came the physical exam. When the doctor pressed on my abdomen—especially the lower right side—I nearly jumped off the bed. That reaction seemed to confirm their suspicion.
“Possible appendicitis,” they said.
The Diagnostic Workup
From there, things moved quickly but methodically.
Blood tests were drawn. Later, I learned they were looking for signs of infection—specifically an elevated white blood cell count.
Next came imaging. In my case, they recommended a CT scan for clarity. I opted for the cheaper Ultrasound, but the results were less certain. I didn’t want to go through surgery if they weren’t certain. Based on my quick presentation, we weren’t expecting it to be complicated. The scan itself was straightforward, but the wait for results felt long.
When the doctor returned, the message was direct and certain:
“You have acute appendicitis.”
Oddly, I felt relief. At least there was a clear answer.
Understanding My Treatment Options
I expected the next step would automatically be surgery, but I was given a brief explanation of options.
- Antibiotics alone (in select, uncomplicated cases)
- Surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy)
The physician explained that while some cases can be managed non-operatively, surgery is definitive and reduces the risk of recurrence. Given my symptoms and imaging findings, laparoscopic appendectomy was strongly recommended.
At that point, I didn’t hesitate. I wanted it resolved.
Preparing for Surgery
Everything moved quickly after that decision.
- I was started on IV antibiotics
- Fluids were given
- I was told not to eat or drink
- A surgical consult followed shortly after
The surgeon explained the procedure in clear terms:
- Minimally invasive (laparoscopic)
- Small incisions
- Typically quick recovery
- Low complication rate
Consent signed, I was on my way to the operating room within hours of arriving.
The Procedure and Immediate Recovery
I don’t remember much after being wheeled in—just the bright lights and a calm, reassuring team.
When I woke up, it was done.
I had three small incisions on my abdomen. The deep, constant pain I had felt earlier was gone—replaced by a different, more manageable soreness from surgery.
The nurse encouraged me to:
- Start moving early
- Take deep breaths
- Try small sips of fluids
I was surprised at how quickly I felt better compared to just hours before.
The Outcome
I went home the next day.
Recovery wasn’t entirely effortless—there was some fatigue, mild pain, and the need to take it easy—but it was remarkably smooth. Within a week, I was moving comfortably. Within a couple of weeks, I felt like myself again.
At follow-up, the surgeon confirmed:
- The appendix was inflamed but not ruptured
- Surgery had been completed without complications
Looking Back
What stands out most is how subtle the beginning was—and how important it was to recognize the progression.
If I had ignored it longer, things could have been very different. Appendicitis doesn’t resolve on its own, and delay can lead to rupture, abscess, and a much more complicated course.
What I’d Tell Others
If something feels wrong, especially abdominal pain that:
- Migrates to the right lower side
- Worsens over time
- Is associated with fever or loss of appetite
Don’t wait it out.
Getting evaluated early made all the difference in my outcome. What started as a vague discomfort became a clear diagnosis, a definitive treatment, and ultimately—a straightforward recovery.
And for that, I’m grateful, yes, grateful for the care I found at Intercare Hospital.
