What is Peritonitis?
Peritonitis is a serious medical condition characterized by inflammation of the peritoneum, the thin tissue lining the inside of the abdomen and covering the abdominal organs. It usually results from infection or injury and can become life-threatening if untreated.
Causes
What causes Peritonitis?
Peritonitis can be caused by:
- Bacterial or fungal infection, often due to a burst appendix, perforated ulcer, or intestinal rupture
- Abdominal injury or trauma
- Complications from abdominal surgery or medical procedures
- Inflammation from conditions like pancreatitis or diverticulitis
- Peritoneal dialysis infections in patients with kidney failure
Symptoms
What are the symptoms of Peritonitis?
- Severe abdominal pain and tenderness
- Abdominal swelling or bloating
- Fever and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid heartbeat and breathing
- Difficulty passing stool or gas
- Weakness or fatigue
Diagnosis
How is Peritonitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
- Physical examination revealing abdominal tenderness and guarding
- Blood tests showing signs of infection or inflammation
- Imaging tests like abdominal X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan to identify infection source or fluid accumulation
- Analysis of peritoneal fluid obtained by needle aspiration (paracentesis) to detect infection
Treatment
How is Peritonitis treated?
Peritonitis requires immediate medical treatment:
- Hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics to fight infection
- Surgery to repair any perforation, remove infected tissue, or drain abscesses
- Supportive care including fluids, pain control, and monitoring for complications
- In cases related to peritoneal dialysis, temporary discontinuation of dialysis may be necessary
Prognosis
What is the outlook for someone with Peritonitis?
With prompt and appropriate treatment, many patients recover well. However, delayed treatment can lead to severe complications such as sepsis, organ failure, and death.
Prevention
Can Peritonitis be prevented?
Preventive measures include:
- Timely treatment of abdominal infections or conditions like appendicitis
- Proper care and sterile techniques during surgeries and medical procedures
- Careful management of peritoneal dialysis to prevent infection
- Avoiding abdominal injuries when possible
Support and Management
How can patients manage life with Peritonitis?
- Follow all medical advice and complete prescribed treatments
- Attend regular follow-up visits to monitor recovery
- Report any new or worsening symptoms immediately
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support immune function during recovery
When should someone see a doctor?
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, fever, or signs of infection.