Peritonitis Leading to Sepsis
Peritonitis is an internal infection which can easily lead to the development of sepsis, an over-reaction by the body's immune system which can lead to multiple organ failure and death.
Peritonitis
Peritonitis can occur when the perforation of a part of the bowel allows bacteria to leak into the abdomen. As the peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity, it is possible for bacteria from waste matter to infect the peritoneum which then becomes inflamed.
A number of different medical conditions might lead to such a development:
- A perforated appendix
- Bowel perforation due to diverticulitis
- Bowel damage due to damage during a surgical procedure such as a hysterectomy
- Damage to the bile duct
- A burst stomach ulcer
Someone suffering with extreme stomach pain, tenderness, high temperature and a fast heartbeat might be suffering from peritonitis and requires urgent investigation to assess what might be causing it.
Abdominal infection
If it is established that the patient is suffering with peritonitis or that they have a perforated bowel and are susceptible to the development of peritonitis, they should also be closely observed for signs and symptoms of sepsis.
The signs and symptoms of sepsis include the following:
- Shivering
- Breathlessness
- A rapid heartbeat
- A lowered blood pressure
- Confusion and slurred speech
Treating sepsis
If sepsis is suspected, a rapid response by medical professionals is vital. The condition can develop quickly to become life-threatening.
According to the latest recommendations on sepsis and septic shock, patients who are suspected of suffering with sepsis should be put on broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics within one hour while the underlying infection is investigated.
Failing to spot the signs of sepsis
Up to a quarter of a million people are thought to develop sepsis in the UK every year with over 40,000 people dying from it.
It is clearly both common and deadly.
And yet, the signs are often missed and patients can suffer with terrible long-term symptoms, if, indeed, they survive at all.
Medical Negligence
If the signs of sepsis are missed, especially where vulnerable patients with infections are concerned, the relevant medical professionals may be considered to have acted negligently.
If you or a loved one have suffered with the appalling impact of sepsis due to a failure to diagnose, you may wish to discuss the possibility of a compensation claim with an experienced medical negligence solicitor. Call us now to discuss your situation.
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