Final answer:
The recovery time after an appendectomy varies; normal activities might resume within days to a week for laparoscopic surgery and longer for open surgery. Full recovery can take several weeks, and in some cases, extended symptoms like lethargy and joint pain may persist, as seen in the example of John.
Step-by-step explanation:
The time it takes to resume normal activities after an appendectomy can vary. Typically, a person can return to normal, non-strenuous activities within a few days to a week after a laparoscopic surgery, or a bit longer after an open appendectomy. Full recovery, however, may take several weeks. The return to work or school usually follows this initial recovery period, often after about two to four weeks. In a case like John's, where postoperative symptoms such as lethargy and joint pain persisted, it is essential to consider that full recovery can take much longer, and lasting effects have been known to occur.
It is important to follow the advice of healthcare providers and listen to one's own body during the recovery process. If someone experiences extended symptoms like John, they should seek medical attention as it may not be the norm and could signal additional health issues.