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Warning-sign checks

Peritonitis - secondary: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if you have severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, especially with a hard or swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, fever, faintness, confusion, breathing difficulty, clammy skin, or very little urine.

    Avoid eating or drinking while waiting for emergency advice because urgent surgery or anaesthesia may be needed.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Suspected secondary peritonitis always needs urgent hospital assessment.

    After treatment, contact your surgical or hospital team urgently if you develop increasing abdominal pain, a new fever, repeated vomiting, worsening swelling, pus or bowel-like fluid from a wound, or a drain that suddenly changes or stops working.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is appropriate for gradual recovery concerns such as ongoing tiredness, reduced appetite, bowel-pattern changes, stoma care, or questions about returning to work and activity.

    A sudden decline is not a routine follow-up issue.

The article also says

Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, confused, severely weak, or unable to move safely.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Peritonitis - secondary. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.