Medical opinion appreciated on this one please?

Question

I had my appendix removed a couple of weeks ago.
The appendix was healthy and the original problem seems to have gone now anyway. My bowels did not work after the operation for a week. still only work if i take laxatives.

I have a very big hard lump developed under the scar.

Gp said as i didnt feel ill it can be urgent and im waiting to hear from surgeon who did op but still havent heard yet.

Ive been sent a letter from the hospital i had the op in asking me to attend a breast clinic - why? its not a standard letter by the way.

Any one know what this lump is.

Why do you think im being sent for a breast examination?

Worrying a bit too much probably ! but would like to hear another medical persons thinking on this please.

Answer 1

Those guys are sending you answers by Google. Best will be you change the hospital immediately.
Report immediately pl.

Answer 2

The lump could possibly be a post-op hernia - not unusual or worrying.

As far as the breast exam - have you found your way into the health system after a few years falling under the radar? Could you be due a routine mammogram? (IE are you over 50?). Otherwise I can't see why a breast exam would be indicated by way of any investigations re appendicitis. It's most probably a coincedence - try not to worry too much (easy for me to say, I know :-) )

Answer 3

Senior med student - This all hinges on why you had the surgery - I imagine right lower abdominal pain - classic appendicitis symptoms? I don't have much experience in post-surgical issues, but the lump(if directly under scar and not there b4 surgery) is probably just post-surgical changes and not related to your breast..I wouldn't be too worried about it. I imagine you were arranged for a breast clinic visit simply for routine breast exam(recommended for women at certain ages)... I don't have your full history so I don't know if they are looking for something else but I think these 2 things are unrelated.

Answer 4

your bowels may be effected by pain medications as well, you could have scar tissue after the surgery...sounds like the kind that can reduce some after the healing process. scar massage can help reduce it as well, apply triple antibiotic on scar and massage in. i agree with the guy above also...the breast exam sounds routine and two unrelated issues as well.

try not to get worked up and continue talking to your doctors as well. one thing that can help you as well...write down any questions you may have for your doctor, and ask them when you talk to him/her next! it's easier to remember your questions when you do it t!!!!