Peritonitis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 2, 2024.
Peritonitis is an infection in the lining that covers your abdomen and organs, called the peritoneum. Spontaneous peritonitis happens when fluid in the peritoneum becomes infected. Secondary peritonitis happens after an injury or surgery in your abdomen. A peritonitis infection can become life-threatening.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have severe abdominal pain that keeps you from being comfortable.
- You have severe abdominal tenderness.
- You have severe abdominal pain after you have an accident or are injured.
- You are receiving peritoneal dialysis and the dialysis fluid is cloudy or has flecks or clumps.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicines may be given to treat a bacterial infection. You may also need medicines to relieve nausea or to stop vomiting.
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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