Role of Home Remedies and Self-Medication in Late Presentation of Acute Appendicitis and Its Possible Consequences

Abstract

Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency with significant morbidity and mortality if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Delayed presentation is often attributed to factors like home remedies, self-medication, and misdiagnosis by non-medical professionals. This study aimed to identify the reasons for delayed presentation of acute appendicitis in patients presenting to Northwest General Hospital, Peshawar. This retrospective study was conducted from January 2021 to October 2022, including 120 patients with acute appendicitis. Most patients (61%) were male, with an average age of 45 years. A significant number of patients (48%) presented from remote areas, and 31% delayed seeking medical attention for more than 2 weeks. Common reasons for delay included self-medication (38%), misdiagnosis by non-medical professionals (57%), and fear of surgery. Delayed presentation of acute appendicitis is a significant public health issue in the study area. Factors contributing to delay include limited access to healthcare, self-medication, and misdiagnosis. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are crucial to reduce complications and improve outcomes. Raising awareness among the public and healthcare providers about the importance of early presentation for acute appendicitis is essential.