Definition

Ascites is the accumulation of excess fluid in the abdominal cavity. This condition can be treated, so if you think you have ascites, contact your doctor.

Ascites Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Ascites is usually caused by liver disorders, including:

• Cirrhosis —a disease in which the liver becomes permanently damaged
• Chronic hepatitis —an infection of the liver
• Severe alcoholic hepatitis without cirrhosis
• Obstruction of the hepatic vein (a blood vessel of the liver)

It can also be caused by:

• Cancer
• Heart failure
• Kidney failure
• Pancreatitis
• Tuberculosis

Risk Factors    TOP

These factors increase your chance of developing ascites. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

• Alcoholism
• Hepatitis B or C

Symptoms    TOP

If you experience any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to ascites. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.

• Increased abdominal circumference
• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal pain and/or distention
• Pain in the side abdomen
• Rapid weight gain
• Difficulty breathing while lying flat
• Decreased appetite
• Heartburn

Diagnosis    TOP

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:

• Ultrasound —a test that uses sound waves to examine the abdominal cavity
• CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the abdominal cavity
• MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the abdominal cavity
• Laparoscopy —a thin, lighted tube inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to look at the structures inside the abdominal cavity
• Blood tests—to determine liver and kidney function as well as evidence of other problems that may lead to ascites
• Liver biopsy —removal of a sample of liver tissue for testing
• Angiography —x-rays taken after a dye is injected into the arteries to better view the area being examined
• Abdominal paracentesis —removal and testing of fluid from the abdominal cavity

Treatment    TOP

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Prevention    TOP

To decrease the risk of ascites, take the following steps to prevent cirrhosis, the most common cause of ascites:

• Drink alcohol in moderation. This means no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.
• Practice safe sex to avoid hepatitis.
• Do not share intravenous (IV) needles.
• Get vaccinated for hepatitis B.
• If you are taking medications that can damage your liver, follow your doctor's guidelines on getting your blood tested.

If you have had ascites, you can prevent their reoccurrence by:

• Not drinking alcohol
• Limiting your use of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs (unless recommended otherwise by your doctor)
• Restricting your sodium intake
• Taking diuretics as recommended by your doctor