Understanding Ascites: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Explore Over 11,000+ Conditions, Medications, and Symptoms.

Get a personalized feed by signing up for free.

All Conditions

Ascites

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Fluid in peritoneal cavity - Malignant Ascites

General

Ascites is an abnormal accumulation of fluids in the abdomen. Ascites is caused due to increased pressure in the hepatic veins by cirrhosis, heart failure or kidney failure. The increased pressure blocks blood flow to the liver. Risk factors for ascites include any disease that may cause damage to the liver such as viral infections, alcohol abuse, abdomen malignancies, kidney failure and congestive heart failure.

30 people with Ascites are on Alike.

"Alike is the place to get answers from people who firsthand share your health challenges"

Signs & symptoms

Signs and symptoms of ascites include shortness of breath, nausea, led edema, indigestion, vomiting, heartburn, loss of appetite, fever and hernia.

Diagnosis

Ascites diagnosis is based upon physical examination and medical history. Then, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan may be performed along with blood work. Paracentesis is a procedure in which a needle is used to remove fluid from the abdomen for testing.

Treatment

Treatment for ascites may include lifestyle changes- patients may have to reduce salty foods, give up alcohol and limit fluid intake. Diuretics such as furosemide or spironolactone. Furthemore, paracentesis may help to remove large amounts of excess fluid, though it may recur. If all these measures fail, a surgery to replace a shunt may be needed.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

Latest Discussions

Bethy_burd

6mo

It can present with heart conditions such as heart...

Mnw

Increased ca125 levels after hysterectomy and treatment

Sissaboom

Diagnosed with Cirrhosis, Seeking Advice and...

Aubri

Can Ascites Occur Without Constipation?

Alike Wisdom

Instantly get answers to medical questions with our AI, built from the collective wisdom of our community facing similar experiences

It can present with heart conditions such as heart failure with presenting symptoms like irregular heart beats, shortness of breath.It can also cause liver damages and it will show up as itching, jaundice loss of appetite, **build up of fluid** around the belly and weight loss.

Increased ca125 levels after hysterectomy and treatment

Diagnosed with Cirrhosis, Seeking Advice and Encouragement

Can Ascites Occur Without Constipation?

Alike is a transformative platform that goes beyond just bringing together patients; it meticulously connects individuals based on multiple critical factors, such as age, gender, comorbidities, medications, diet, and more, fostering a community of knowledge, support and empathy.

About Alike Wisdom Blog FAQ Editorial Team All Conditions All Posts All Communities Support

Your Privacy Stories Community Guidelines Terms of Use Privacy Policy Helplines Contact Us Group Chats Guidelines Moderation Process

Sign In