Peritonitis
Peritonitis is an infection of the lining of the abdominal wall (peritoneum) caused by bacteria or irritating substances. Peritonitis causes pain and swelling in the abdomen and can be very serious if it is not treated.
Symptoms of peritonitis include:
- Swelling of the belly, which may feel hard (rigid).
- Severe pain and tenderness in the belly that may get worse with moving, coughing, or pressing on the belly. The pain sometimes goes up into the shoulder.
- Fever and chills.
- A fast pulse.
- Rapid breathing.
- Confusion or feeling less alert.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
A person with these symptoms requires immediate medical attention. Treatment typically involves surgery and antibiotics. Without treatment, the illness gets worse rapidly and can become life-threatening.
What are the symptoms of peritonitis?
Symptoms of peritonitis include a belly that's swollen, hard, and tender. The belly pain may get worse when you move, cough, or press on the belly. You may also have a fever and chills. And you may feel confused or less alert. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
How is peritonitis treated?
Peritonitis is treated with antibiotics. If there is damage to an organ in the belly, you will likely need surgery to repair the damage. If your symptoms are severe, you may need surgery right away.
How is peritonitis diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask about your history and symptoms. If there is fluid in your belly, a thin needle may be used to take a sample of the fluid. This is then tested to help find out the cause of your symptoms. You may also have a CT scan or other imaging test.
How can you care for yourself when you have peritonitis?
Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics. If you have a peritoneal dialysis catheter, keep the access area clean and dry.
What is peritonitis?
Peritonitis is an infection of the lining of the belly (peritoneum). It causes pain and swelling inside the belly. It may also cause a fever. It is a serious infection that needs medical care right away. If the illness is not treated, it gets worse fast and can become life-threatening.
Peritonitis from peritoneal dialysis: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your belly is bloated or swollen. It may feel hard (rigid).
- You have severe pain and tenderness in the belly that may get worse when you move, cough, or press on the belly. The pain sometimes goes up into the shoulder.
- You have fever and chills.
- You have a fast pulse.
- You are breathing faster than usual.
- You are confused or feel less alert.
- You have new or worse nausea and vomiting.
- You have diarrhea.
- You have signs of infection at the access site, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Reddish streaks leading from the site.
- Pus draining from the site.
- A fever.
- The dialysis fluid looks cloudy or changes color.
- Fluid is not flowing through the catheter.
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