What is peritonitis?
A person with peritonitis has inflammation of the peritoneum, usually due to a bacterial infection. The peritoneum is a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdominal organs and the inside of the abdominal wall. Common causes of peritonitis include appendicitis, diverticulitis, abdominal injury, and peptic ulcer disease. A perforated bowel allows food or stool to leak into the abdomen. The food or stool can also cause peritonitis.

What are the symptoms of peritonitis?
Symptoms of peritonitis include severe abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness, abdominal swelling, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, constipation, and difficulty breathing.

How does the doctor treat peritonitis?
The treatment for peritonitis depends on the underlying cause. Treatment for peritonitis may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, narcotic pain medications, and surgery.