What is ascites?
Ascites is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity. If ascites is severe, it can be painful. The problem may prevent you from moving comfortably. Ascites can lead to infection in the abdominal cavity. Fluid can also move into your chest and surround your lungs. This makes breathing difficult.
What causes ascites?
The most common cause of ascites is liver cirrhosis. Drinking too much alcohol is one of the most common causes of cirrhosis. Various forms of cancer can also cause this condition. Ascites caused by cancer most often occurs in connection with advanced or recurrent cancer. Ascites can also be caused by other problems such as heart disease, dialysis, low protein levels and infections.
These are the symptoms of ascites:
Abdominal swelling
Gaining weight
Full of feeling
swelling
Feeling pregnant
Nausea or indigestion
Vomiting
Swelling of the legs
Shortness of breath
Hemorrhoids
How is ascites diagnosed? The healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. You may also have tests like:
Liquid sample.
A fluid sample may be taken from the stomach with a needle. This fluid is checked for diseases such as cancer or infection. This test helps determine the cause of ascites. Taking pictures. The health care provider may request images of the inside of the abdomen using an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan. MRI creates images using a magnetic field and radio frequency energy. A CT scan creates computerized images using X-rays.
How is ascites treated?
Several steps can help relieve ascites. Your doctor may tell you:
Reduce the use of salt. A health care provider or dietitian can show you how to follow a low-sodium diet. Avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium. This is because some medications used to treat ascites can raise your potassium levels. Reduce the amount of fluid you drink. Stop drinking alcohol. Take diuretics to help reduce the amount of fluid in the body. In some cases, your doctor may need to remove a large amount of fluid from your stomach with a needle. This may be done if you have trouble breathing or if the diuretic is not working. In very difficult situations, you may need a special radiological procedure called TIPS. During this procedure, a connection is made between the blood vessels inside the liver, which relieves the high pressure that causes ascites. What are the complications of ascites? Ascites can make eating, drinking and movement difficult. It can also make breathing difficult. Ascites can lead to abdominal infections, which can lead to kidney failure. It can also cause an umbilical or inguinal hernia.
Can ascites be prevented?
Certain actions that help you avoid cirrhosis and liver cancer can prevent ascites. They include:
Stop drinking alcohol. We want to maintain a healthy weight. Do Exercise regularly. Stop smoking, use less salt in your diet. Do not take recreational drugs to reduce your chance of getting hepatitis. Living with ascites
Be sure to follow your doctor's advice to reduce your salt intake. You should do this even if you use diuretics to reduce the amount of fluid in your body. Also, weigh yourself daily and call your doctor if you gain too much weight.
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