1. Diagnose and Treat Underlying Conditions
Keep on top of your health to prevent peritonitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening infection of the membrane that contains the organs in your abdomen. If you suspect you may have inflammatory bowel and gastrointestinal conditions like diverticulitis, gastric ulcers or Crohn's disease, undergo medical testing to have your condition diagnosed and treated. Many of these illnesses, as well as a ruptured appendix, can cause peritonitis if they are left untreated. When you can catch these conditions in their early stages, your risk of complications and infection in your abdomen drops considerably. Excess fluid that stems from liver disease may also contribute to peritonitis. Try to lower your risk of contracting these ailments by consuming alcohol only in moderation and limiting your exposure to environmental toxins.
2. Keep Dialysis Supplies Sterile
Peritonitis is a common complication experienced by people who use peritoneal dialysis to cleanse their bodies of toxins due to kidney damage. To prevent this dangerous complication, make sure your dialysis catheter and other supplies are kept in a clean, cool, sterile environment. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling your catheter, to prevent the spread of infection. Don't wait to tell your doctor if your insertion site is red and inflamed, since this may be the first sign of infection. Make an appointment to be checked out as soon as you feel or see something that you know is not quite right.
3. Use Antibiotics as a Precautionary Measure
Your doctor may prescribe a preventative dose of antibiotics if you have had peritonitis before, are undergoing dialysis or fall into another risk group for peritonitis. This does not let you off the hook for following through on good hygiene and your treatments, however. Combine awareness of your health with clean hygiene practices to lower your risk for developing serious complications that can do a lot of damage to your body.
