Peritonitis

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Abdominal organs

Peritoneal sample

Acute abdomen

The belly (abdomen) is very painful or tender. The pain may become worse when the belly is touched or when you move.

Your belly may look or feel bloated. This is called abdominal distention.

Other symptoms may include:

• Fever and chills
• Fluid in the abdomen
• Passing few or no stools or gas
• Excessive fatigue
• Passing less urine
• Nausea and vomiting

The doctor will perform a physical exam. The abdomen is usually tender, and may feel firm and "board-like." The patient may "guard" the area by tightening the stomach muscles when examined, curling up, or refusing to allow the area to be touched.

Blood tests, x-rays, and CT scans may be ordered. If there is a lot of fluid in the belly area, the doctor may use a needle to remove some and send it for testing.

Review Date: 06/10/2010
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji MD, PhD, Specializing in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland , TX Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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