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Peritonitis
Emergency
Peritonitis is inflammation or infection of the peritoneum, the thin tissue lining the inside of the abdomen and covering many abdominal organs. It can cause severe abdominal pain, tenderness, swelling, fever, nausea and vomiting. Peritonitis can develop when bacteria or other substances enter the abdominal cavity. It is potentially serious and may require urgent medical treatment.
Body System
Digestive System
Emergency Medical Attention
Peritonitis is a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical assessment. Seek emergency care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness or rigidity, fever, persistent vomiting, marked abdominal swelling, confusion, fainting, rapid deterioration, or other signs of serious infection or shock.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Peritonitis is inflammation or infection of the peritoneum, the thin tissue lining the inside of the abdomen and covering many abdominal organs. It can cause severe abdominal pain, tenderness, swelling, fever, nausea and vomiting. Peritonitis can develop when bacteria or other substances enter the abdominal cavity. It is potentially serious and may require urgent medical treatment.
Symptoms 3
Blood In Vomit
Fever
Lower Abdominal Pain
Causes 2
Peritonitis may occur when an abdominal organ becomes perforated or ruptures, allowing bacteria or digestive contents to enter the abdominal cavity. Causes include a burst appendix, perforated stomach or intestinal ulcer, bowel injury and severe abdominal infection. It can also develop as a complication in people receiving peritoneal dialysis. The underlying cause determines the treatment required.
Infection
Inflammation
Risk Factors
Risk is increased by conditions that can cause abdominal perforation or infection, including appendicitis, diverticulitis, bowel disease, abdominal trauma and ulcers. People undergoing peritoneal dialysis have an increased risk of infection involving the peritoneum. Previous abdominal surgery and conditions that weaken immune defenses may also increase susceptibility to serious abdominal infections.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis begins with symptoms, medical history and physical examination. The abdomen may be very tender or painful during examination. Blood tests can help identify inflammation or infection. Imaging such as abdominal CT scanning or ultrasound may help locate the source. In some cases, fluid from the abdominal cavity is collected and examined to identify infection and guide treatment.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Some causes of peritonitis can be reduced by treating abdominal infections and conditions such as appendicitis promptly
People using peritoneal dialysis should carefully follow sterile technique and their treatment team instructions
Seek urgent medical care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, fever, persistent vomiting or abdominal swelling, particularly when an abdominal infection or perforation is suspected
Prevention Guidance
Some causes of peritonitis can be reduced by treating abdominal infections and conditions such as appendicitis promptly. People using peritoneal dialysis should carefully follow sterile technique and their treatment team instructions. Seek urgent medical care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, fever, persistent vomiting or abdominal swelling, particularly when an abdominal infection or perforation is suspected.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Clear Fluids
Help maintain hydration.
Protein Rich Foods
Support recovery after treatment.
Vegetable Soup
Easy to digest.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May impair recovery.
Heavy Fatty Meals
Difficult to digest.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Peritonitis is inflammation of the abdominal lining.
Infection and perforation of abdominal organs are common causes.
Severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea may occur.
Treatment often includes antibiotics and surgery.
Yes, it can be life-threatening if untreated.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.