Abdominal Surgeon Questions Abdominal Surgeon

ā€œCan I drink after appendix surgery?ā€

I had my appendix taken out over 48 hours ago. Iā€™m not taking any meds. Would it be ok to have a few beers with my friends?

Male | 41 years old

6 Answers

No beers.
It would not necessarily be unsafe, if you are not on any pain medications, but becoming even slightly intoxicated can alter your balance and decision making which may put your incisions and healing at risk - I recommend taking it easy for at least the first week post-op.
Your alcohol tolerance may be affected after surgery, especially since you were likely given narcotic painkillers while in the hospital. I recommend caution while drinking alcohol during the recovery phase after surgery.
Yes, within reason, and do not drive.
After surgery you are at risk of having dehydration for 3 to five days. You may have also had deep blocks that could prevent pan for two days. So you might have pain on day 3 and require a narcotic. Overall, I would not suggest drinking alcohol for at least 7 days to prevent dehydration and the combination effects of anesthesia, narcotics and alcohol.
As long as you are not taking antibiotics.