What it is
It needs treatment in hospital straight away, as the infection can spread quickly into the blood.
Treatment usually includes antibiotics given into a vein, and surgery may be needed to fix the cause or drain infected fluid.
Common signs
- Tummy pain that gets worse quickly
- A tummy that is very tender or rigid
- High temperature
- Feeling or being sick
- Not passing stools or wind
- Cloudy fluid from a dialysis bag
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the tummy
- Blood tests
- CT scan or X-ray
- Testing fluid from the tummy
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Blood test results
- Scan reports
- Surgery notes
- Discharge letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- What caused the peritonitis?
- How long will recovery take?
- What follow-up will I need?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Severe tummy pain with a fever, or a hard, swollen tummy: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.