Symptoms of PERITONITIS

Many disorders that evolve into generalized peritonitis may begin as localized diseases. Such localized diseases, such as appendicitis, cholecystitis, diverticulitis, ulcer disease and others, begin with localized symptoms. As an inflection or inflammation spreads through the peritoneal cavity, the pain evolves from localized to generalized. Movement or pressure on the abdomen tends to aggravate the symptoms. Nausea and vomiting occurs. Fever and chills develop. Inflammation of the peritoneal cavity frequently causes the intestines to stop their normal contractions. Fluid collects rapidly in the organs of the abdomen. This leads to abdominal swelling, rapid heart beat and increased thirst. If the diaphragms are irritated (muscles that separate the abdomen and chest and allow for breathing) pain may be felt in the shoulders.