Peritonitis is an inflammation of the lining of the abdomen and the lining of its organs — the stomach, liver, and intestines. Inflammatory diseases are often a complication of acute diseases (eg, acute cholecystitis, adnexitis, appendicitis). Internal organs are damaged by the entry of pus-producing microbes into the abdomen.
Rupture of the stomach and duodenum due to ulcers or narrowing of the hernia can sometimes cause peritonitis. Peritonitis of unknown cause is also common. At this time, a careful examination of the patient reveals the factors that caused the disease. It should be noted that in children, peritonitis often occurs due to rupture of the appendix.
There is also a specific disease in young girls called diplococcal peritonitis. The disease is manifested by sudden onset of severe pain in the lower abdomen, fever, repeated vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea. The girl's general condition worsens, she cries and is disturbed, she groans incessantly. In more severe cases, there is severe pain in the abdomen, especially in the lower and right sides, and muscle tension.
There are three main stages of peritonitis:
Reactive phase (up to 24 hours from the onset of the disease);
Toxic stage (up to 48 hours from the onset of the disease)
Terminal stage (up to 72 hours from the onset of the disease).
In the reactive phase, despite the deterioration of the patient's condition, the body's reserve forces are mobilized and fight their own way. In the toxic phase, the body's reserves are weakened and signs of poisoning appear. In the terminal stage, the general condition is aggravated by the fact that the poisoning affects the activity of the upper nervous system. The activity of all organs and systems begins to decline. Symptoms of constipation and constipation may occur. The patient should be treated immediately.
Peritonitis, especially in young children, develops rapidly and is severe, and if not diagnosed in time, the consequences can be tragic. In purulent inflammation of the peritoneum (peritonitis), surgical treatment is used. The anterior abdominal wall is cut and tubes are left to wash the abdomen with medication. The patient is under strict medical supervision for one or two weeks after the operation. In fact, it is better to prevent than to cure. The earlier you seek medical help at the onset of the disease, the better the outcome of treatment.
