Peritonitis is a serious condition that is often triggered by a bacterial infection. Unless steps are taken to address the condition immediately, the pain can become excruciating and permanent damage to the peritoneum can result. Here are the most common steps in dealing with peritonitis.
Instructions
1. Determine the origin of the problem. In most cases, foreign bacteria is the root cause for peritonitis. Assessing the type of bacteria helps to set the stage for the effective type of treatment.
2. Initiate the use of antibiotics. One of the best ways to begin alleviating the severe gastrointestinal discomfort associated with peritonitis is to introduce antibiotics that are known to kill off the bacteria present. The antibiotics are usually not provided in an oral form. More commonly, they are introduced in a fluid drip that helps to provide both fluids and electrolytes along with the antibiotics intravenously.
3. Monitor the rate of progress of the antibiotics. Depending on the severity of the condition, antibiotics may be sufficient to bring the condition under control and kill off the . Treatments with the antibiotics may require a few days or even a few weeks to achieve maximum effect.
4. Consider surgery. Antibiotics may be used to bring a severe condition under control, and allow physicians to employ surgical techniques to repair any internal damage, such as perforations in the intestinal tract, remove a burst appendix, or deal with a peptic ulcer. Often, a post operative series of antibiotic treatments are used to deal with any lingering signs of bacteria and allow the body’s natural defenses to allow the patient to recover from surgery.
5. Follow all directions issued by the physician in regard to the recuperative period. Often, this will mean limiting various forms of physical exertion, avoiding different types of foods and liquids, and also refraining from the use of anything but approved medications, both over the counter and prescription.
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