Ascities

What is Ascities?

This condition is characterized by a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity, specifically within the peritoneal cavity that is located within the abdomen and the abdominal organs. A few of the most common signs of Ascites include swelling in the abdomen and the ankles, an increase in weight gain and also shortness of breath.

Symptoms:

Symptoms may develop slowly or suddenly depending on the cause. You may have no symptoms if there is only a small amount of fluid in the belly.

As more fluid collects, you may have abdominal pain and bloating. Large amounts of fluid can cause shortness of breath.

Diagnosis:

Your doctor will do a physical exam to determine the amount of swelling in your belly. Your doctor may order lab tests to assess your liver and kidneys. Your doctor may also use a needle to withdraw fluid from your belly. The fluid is then tested to look for the cause of ascites.

Treatment:

The condition that causes ascites will be treated, if possible.

Treatments for fluid build-up may include lifestyle changes:

  • Avoiding alcohol
  • Lowering salt in your diet (no more than 1,500 mg/day of sodium)
  • Limiting fluid intake
  • You may also get medicines from your doctor including:
    • “Water pills” (diuretics) to get rid of extra fluid
    • Antibiotics for infections
  • Procedures that you may have are:
    • Inserting a tube into the belly to remove large volumes of fluid (called paracentesis)
    • Placing a shunt or tube inside your belly (TIPS) to repair flow to the liver.

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