Peritonitis
What is peritonitis?
Peritonitis – Inflammation or infection of the peritoneum. The peritoneum is a thin wrapper of the serous tissues, that covers the inner part of the abdomen. It also covers the outside of the intestines and other abdominal organs.
There are several types of peritonitis:
- Primary;
- Secondary;
- Peritonitis, associated with peritoneal′nym dialysis.
Peritonitis is a grave condition and needs immediate medical intervention. If peritonitis treated in a timely manner does not begin, This may cause fatal.
Causes of peritonitis
- Primary peritonitis – occurs when the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity (ascites). His appearance is caused by various diseases, such as cirrhosis (chronic liver disease).
- Secondary peritonitis caused by bacteria, that fall within the abdominal cavity as a result of injury or disease, eg, After rupture of the Appendix.
- Peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis as a result occurs when it enters the abdominal cavity causing bacteria during or after dialysis.
Risk factors of peritonitis
Factors, that can increase the likelihood of peritonitis include:
- Penetrating abdominal trauma;
- Blood in the abdominal cavity;
- A ruptured appendix;
- Stomach ulcer;
- Colitis;
- Diverticulitis;
- Gangrenous bowels;
- Pancreatitis;
- Pelvic inflammatory disease;
- Inflammation of the gallbladder;
- Recent surgery;
- The presence of tubes or Shunts in the abdominal cavity;
- Medication, containing cortisone.
Symptoms of peritonitis
Peritonitis can cause the following symptoms:
- Severe pain or tenderness in the abdominal area;
- Abdominal pain, growing when driving;
- Abdominal distention;
- Constipation;
- Fever;
- Nausea and rvota4
- Weakness or dizziness;
- Breathlessness;
- Increased heart rate or breathing rate;
- Dehydration – symptoms include dry skin and lips, reducing urine formulation.
Diagnosis of peritonitis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. Tests may include:
- Blood tests;
- Analysis of fluid from the peritoneum;
- X-ray of the abdomen;
- Exploratory laparotomy.
Treatment of peritonitis
Treatment depends on the cause of peritonitis. Treatment options may include:
- Operation, to sew the holes on the surface of the skin or remove damaged tissue;
- Antibiotics to treat the infection;
- Filling fluid loss.
Prevention of peritonitis
There are no guidelines for preventing peritonitis.
