What are the main physical signs of peritonitis?
May 25, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
Peritonitis is usually caused by bacterial infection. The most common symptom after the onset of peritonitis is abdominal pain, which may also lead to tense contractions of the abdominal muscles. When touched by hand, the abdomen feels noticeably rigid. When the abdomen is pressed with the fingertip and then suddenly released, a significant increase in pain indicates a positive rebound tenderness.
Peritonitis is usually caused by bacterial infection, with main clinical signs including abdominal pain, abdominal muscle rigidity, and rebound tenderness. The details are as follows:
1. Abdominal Pain
After the onset of peritonitis, the most common symptom is abdominal pain. This typically results from inflammatory mediators or gastrointestinal contents irritating the abdominal mucosa, leading to severe abdominal pain.
2. Abdominal Muscle Rigidity
This usually occurs due to inflammation causing tonic contraction of the abdominal muscles. On palpation, the abdomen feels noticeably stiff. When inflammation spreads throughout the entire abdomen, it may lead to a "board-like abdomen" (rigid abdomen).
3. Rebound Tenderness
When pressing on the abdomen with fingers and suddenly releasing the pressure, if the patient experiences significantly increased pain, this indicates a positive rebound tenderness.
In addition, some patients may also experience nausea and vomiting. If these symptoms occur, they should be taken seriously, as severe peritonitis can lead to septic shock. Therefore, timely medical evaluation and treatment are crucial.
