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Ascites

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Ascites

Definition

Ascites is the buildup of excess fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Ascites.

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Causes

Ascites can be caused by:

  • Cirrhosis (most common cause)
  • High blood pressure in the liver's portal venous system
  • Poor nutrition or other health problems that lead to low amounts of protein in the blood
  • Certain cancers
  • Infections from bacteria, parasites, or tuberculosis
  • Pancreatitis
  • Kidney disease
  • Lymph fluid leaking from the abdomen

Risk Factors

The risk of this problem is higher in people who have any of the health problems that cause ascites.

Symptoms

Problems may be:

  • A swollen belly
  • Belly pain
  • Lack of hunger
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Problems breathing
  • Heartburn

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. This may be enough to suspect ascites.

The tests may be done to find the cause:

Images of the abdomen may be taken. This can be done with:

Treatment

The underlying cause will need to be treated. The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms. Options are:

Prevention

The risk of this health problem may be lowered by treating or preventing the health problems that cause it.

Dietary Changes

Dietary changes may need to be made, such as:

  • Limiting sodium to ease fluid buildup
  • Limiting fluids if sodium levels are too low
  • Avoiding alcohol, which can impair liver function

Dietary Changes

Dietary changes may need to be made, such as:

  • Limiting sodium to ease fluid buildup
  • Limiting fluids if sodium levels are too low
  • Avoiding alcohol, which can impair liver function

Medicine

Diuretic medicines cause the kidneys to pass more sodium and water in urine. They may be used with a low sodium diet.

Procedures

Excess fluid may need to be removed. This can be done with paracentesis. A hollow needle will be inserted in the abdomen to remove the fluid.

People who are not helped by these methods may need:

  • Surgery to direct blood away from the liver
  • A liver transplant
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Ascites. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/ascites. Accessed August 17, 2021.
  • Ascites: A common problem in people with cirrhosis. American College of Gastroenterology website. Available at: http://patients.gi.org/topics/ascites. August 17, 2021.
  • Cirrhosis. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/liver-disease/cirrhosis/Pages/facts.aspx. Accessed August 17, 2021.

Contributors

  • James Cornell, MD
Last Updated:
2021-07-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.