Perforated Bowel

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

• Care notes
• Discharge
• Inpatient
• Español

A perforated bowel happens when a medical condition, such as diverticulitis, causes a hole or tear in your bowel. An injury or blockage may also perforate your bowel. Bowel contents can leak into your abdomen through the hole. This may cause a life-threatening infection.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• Antibiotics may be given to treat a bacterial infection.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Follow up with your gastroenterologist or surgeon as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Eat fiber:

Eat high-fiber foods, including beans, fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain breads, as directed. Fiber will help you have regular bowel movements. Ask your healthcare provider if you need to be on a special diet.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• metronidazole
• ciprofloxacin

Drink liquids as directed:

Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. Liquids are important to help you have regular bowel movements.

Exercise as directed:

Exercise helps keep your bowels working as they should. Never start an exercise without talking to your healthcare provider first.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• Your bowel movements are less frequent than your healthcare provider says is safe.
• You suddenly lose your appetite.
• Your abdomen feels bloated.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You have severe pain in your abdomen.
• You have a fever.
• You have frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting.

© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer