PREVENTING PERITONITIS, AN INFLAMMATORY DISEASE

Chike Okoye was having dinner with his colleagues at the dining table when he felt a sharp pain in his abdomen. He dropped the spoon he held, pushed his plate away from him and laid his head on the table. He waited for the pain to subside, but it got worse. His friend, Audu, tapped him and asked him what was wrong. He mumbled a response that was incoherent. While he tried to put his thoughts together, a wave of nausea hit him, and he felt a strong urge to vomit. He rushed out of the dining room to the field and vomited. His friend and some seniors rushed out after him. After he was done vomiting, he was led to a staircase where he sat, and water was splashed on his face. He was given a glass of water to wash his face. The stomachache kept growing in intensity. He could barely sit upright. His body felt hot to touch. The health prefect backed him and took him to the school clinic. He was attended to by the school nurse who took his vital signs and gave him some drugs hoping the symptoms would subside. He was admitted in the school clinic and placed on bed rest. During the midnight, he could no longer take the pain that wracked his body. He was shivering and vomiting at intervals. Immediately, he was rushed to the hospital from the school clinic. On getting to the hospital, he was attended to in the emergency room after which the doctor went to see his hostel master and the school nurse that brought him.

'Chike has peritonitis' The doctor broke the news to them. 'However, he has been attended to and is much calmer now. He is currently asleep. You should inform his parents'.

'His parents have been informed. They are on their way. They should be here anytime soon' The hostel master replied.

 'Alright then. His condition is under control. There are lifestyle and dietary modifications that can prevent this occurrence. Here's the card of a trusted health and lifestyle coach. You can reach out to her. You can also check out her blog for more educative contents.'

'Alright. Thanks doctor. I will give the card to his parents once they arrive'.

'Alright. If you will excuse me, I have to attend to some other patients.

Peritonitis is a serious medical condition that occurs when the peritoneum, the thin tissue lining the inner wall of the abdomen, becomes inflamed. This inflammation is often the result of an infection, abdominal injury like knife wounds etc. It is usually characterized by abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness, fever and chills, nausea and vomiting. Although peritonitis is a medical condition that requires urgent medical condition, it can be prevented with the appropriate lifestyle and dietary modifications. 

1. Engage in good hygiene practices: Good hygiene is fundamental in preventing infections that can lead to peritonitis. Regular hand washing, proper food handling, and maintaining personal hygiene contribute to reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.

2. Treat all gastrointestinal issues promptly: Addressing gastrointestinal conditions promptly, such as treating appendicitis early, can prevent this disease from progressing to peritonitis.

3. Avoid Trauma: Take precautions to prevent abdominal trauma, whether from accidents or intentional harm to help in reducing the risk of peritonitis caused by physical injury.

4. Eat balanced and nutrient-rich diet: A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports overall health and helps the immune system function optimally. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is essential.

5. Stay hydrated: Staying well-hydrated is vital for maintaining healthy bodily functions, including the digestive system. Proper hydration supports the movement of food through the digestive tract and helps prevent constipation, reducing the risk of complications.

6. Eat lots of fiber-rich food: Including an adequate amount of fiber in the diet promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. This can help to prevent peritonitis.

7. Limit. intake of processed foods and Sugars: Processed foods and excessive sugars can contribute to inflammation and negatively impact gut health. Minimize the intake of these substances helps to support a healthy digestive system, thereby preventing peritonitis.

8. Take lots of probiotics: Probiotics, found in fermented foods like yogurt and kefir, contribute to a balanced gut microbiome. Maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria is essential for proper digestion and immune function.

9. Engage in regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise supports overall health, including maintaining a healthy weight and promoting proper digestion. Physical activity also contributes to a robust immune system.

10. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of various health issues, including gastrointestinal conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight through a combination of a balanced diet and exercise can reduce the risk of peritonitis.

11. Avoiding Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can compromise the immune system and contribute to digestive issues. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake are essential steps in promoting abdominal health.

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NB:We are bio individuals which is to say not all size fits all.prioritizing yourself and your journey with the support and guidance of a health coach will further help in your progress and such a person would be able to get detailed information about themselves that could facilitate results.