Peritonitis is
inflammation of the peritoneum, the thin layer of tissue that
lines the inside of the abdomen (tummy). It is caused by an
infection, which can rapidly spread around the body. Peritonitis is
regarded a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Signs of
peritonitis often develop quickly and can include:
- sudden abdominal pain that
becomes more severe
- nausea (feeling sick)
- a lack of appetite
- a high temperature (fever)
of 38°C (100.4°F) or above
- not passing any urine or
passing less than normal.
Peritonitis presents with severe generalised abdominal pain, which is worse on movement. Without treatment, the patient can rapidly deteriorate.