Peritonitis Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

Severe pain or tenderness in the abdomen
Pain in the abdomen that is worse with motion
Bloating of the abdomen
Constipation
Fever
Nausea and vomiting
Weakness or dizziness
Shortness of breath
Rapid pulse or breathing rate
Dehydration—signs include dry skin and lips, decreased urine production

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include:

Blood tests
Analysis of fluids from the peritoneum
Abdominal x-rays to look for signs of inflammation
Laparotomy—surgery to open and examine the abdomen

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.