Bacterial Peritonitis
What is Bacterial Peritonitis?
Bacterial peritonitis is an infection in the fluid (or peritoneal fluid) that lines the abdomen or stomach. It can happen when bacteria from another part of the body, such as from the mouth, the intestine, or the skin, gets into the fluid. It is a very serious condition and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
The main cause of bacterial peritonitis is when there is a disruption within the lining of your abdomen, which could be the result of an injury or surgery in the area. It can also happen when the appendix bursts and releases bacteria into the abdominal cavity.
Signs and Symptoms of Bacterial Peritonitis
Most people with bacterial peritonitis experience severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms can include:
- A distended abdomen
- Sweating or chills
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Abnormal breathing and heart rate
Diagnosing Bacterial Peritonitis
A healthcare provider usually suspects bacterial peritonitis if the patient suffers from severe abdominal pain along with other symptoms like fever and vomiting. To confirm a diagnosis, the doctor is likely to order tests like a CT scan. During this test, a sample of the fluid in the abdomen is taken and tested for bacteria. Additionally, the doctor might also check for electrolyte imbalances or dehydration.
Treatment of Bacterial Peritonitis
The most important part of treating bacterial peritonitis is to administer antibiotics. The type and duration of antibiotics depend on the underlying cause of the infection and the type of bacteria present. The doctor might also recommend that the patient receive IV fluids to help restore fluid balance.
In severe cases, surgery might be required to remove parts of the intestines that are infected. The patient may also need a blood transfusion if they are severely anemic from the infection.
Preventing Bacterial Peritonitis
The best way to prevent bacterial peritonitis is to take preventive steps to avoid abdominal injuries or infections. This includes practices like wearing protective gear during contact sports, avoiding misuse of antibiotics, and abstaining from drug use. Additionally, people with long-term catheters should take steps to clean and change their catheters regularly to reduce the risk of infection.
It is also important to be aware of the risks that come with abdominal surgery and any procedures involving the gastrointestinal tract. People who are at high risk for bacterial peritonitis should be monitored closely to reduce the risk of complications.