17831 Peritonitis

Overview

Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum — the thin layer of tissue that lines the inside of the belly and covers most of the abdominal organs. This condition can be life-threatening and needs urgent medical attention.

Peritonitis is not very common, but it is very serious. It can affect anyone, but certain health conditions make it more likely.

It can affect people of all ages. Those at higher risk include people with appendicitis, stomach ulcers, liver disease with fluid in the belly, or those who receive peritoneal dialysis for kidney failure.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Severe belly pain that gets worse when you move or touch your stomach
• Bloating or a feeling of tightness in the belly
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble passing gas or having a bowel movement

Symptoms in children

• Being unusually fussy or irritable
• Eating less than normal
• A swollen, tender belly
• Fever or vomiting

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or drowsiness
• A rapid heartbeat or fast breathing
• Low energy or feeling suddenly unwell
• Less obvious belly pain than younger people

Causes

Main causes

• Bacterial infection from a burst appendix, stomach ulcer, or inflamed intestine
• Infection related to peritoneal dialysis (using a tube in the belly to clean the blood)
• Injury or trauma to the abdomen
• Spread of infection from other organs, such as the liver or gallbladder

Risk factors

• Using peritoneal dialysis for kidney failure
• Liver disease with fluid buildup in the belly (ascites)
• A weakened immune system
• Recent abdominal surgery
• Having a catheter (thin tube) placed in the belly

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden, severe belly pain, a hard belly, or signs of infection like fever and chills, call your local emergency number immediately or go to an emergency department.
• Do not try to manage these symptoms at home — peritonitis can get worse quickly.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have mild belly pain that lasts more than a day, or you are feeling generally unwell with a low fever, seek medical advice the same day or within 24 hours.

Diagnosis

A doctor will examine your belly and ask about your symptoms, recent health, and medical history. If peritonitis is suspected, you will likely be sent to the hospital for urgent tests.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for infection and inflammation
• Imaging scans, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, to look inside your belly
• Taking a small sample of fluid from the belly (called a peritoneal tap) to search for bacteria or other problems

What to expect at your appointment

You may be admitted to the hospital quickly. The team will run tests, start fluids through a drip, and give you antibiotics through a vein if needed. You will be monitored closely.

Treatment

Peritonitis is treated in the hospital. The main goals are to control the infection, remove the source of the problem, and support your body while it recovers.

Self-care at home

• Follow your doctor and nurse's instructions exactly.
• Rest and let your body heal.
• Do not eat or drink until your doctor says it is safe.
• Tell a nurse if your pain gets worse or you feel different.

Medical treatments

Treatment usually includes antibiotics given through a vein (intravenously), along with fluids for hydration. Pain relief and medication for nausea may also be given. If you are on peritoneal dialysis, you may need to switch to a different type of kidney dialysis for a while.

When is surgery considered?

In some cases, surgery is needed to fix the source of the infection, such as removing a burst appendix or repairing a torn stomach lining. Draining an abscess may also require a small procedure.

Living with this condition

After hospital treatment, you will need time to recover at home. You may feel tired for a few weeks. Follow up with your doctor as recommended and do not rush back to work or normal activities until you feel ready and your doctor agrees.

Lifestyle tips

• Get enough sleep and take rest breaks during the day.
• Take all prescribed medicines exactly as directed.
• Keep regular appointments with your healthcare team.
• Watch for signs of infection, such as fever, redness, or worsening pain, and contact your doctor if they appear.

Diet and exercise

Start with light, easy-to-digest meals when you feel hungry. Drink plenty of fluids as advised. Gentle walking can help your circulation, but avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise until your doctor says you can do so.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A serious illness can leave you feeling anxious, stressed, or down. These feelings are normal. Talk to your family, friends, or a counsellor. Some hospitals offer support groups or social workers who can help.

Prevention

Not always, but you can lower your risk by getting early care for conditions like appendicitis or stomach ulcers. If you use peritoneal dialysis, follow your care team's instructions carefully to prevent infections.

Complications

If left untreated

• Sepsis — a life-threatening reaction to infection
• An abscess (a pocket of pus) inside the belly
• Bowel blockage
• Organ failure, such as kidneys or lungs

Long-term outlook

With early and proper treatment, most people with peritonitis recover completely. The outcome depends on the cause and how quickly care is started. Even in serious cases, modern medicine has good tools to support people through this illness.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.