Ascites

What is Ascites?

Ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid within the abdominal cavity, causing noticeable swelling or distention. It often signals an underlying condition, such as liver disease, heart failure, or certain types of cancer. Ascites can lead to discomfort, pressure, and additional complications if untreated.

Common Causes of Ascites

• Liver Disease: Cirrhosis, hepatitis, or alcoholic liver damage.
• Heart Conditions: Congestive heart failure causing fluid retention.
• Kidney Diseases: Nephrotic syndrome or chronic kidney issues.
• Cancer: Advanced cancers affecting the liver, abdomen, or peritoneum.
• Infections: Tuberculosis or bacterial peritonitis.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas causing fluid buildup.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Seek medical care if you have severe or ongoing symptoms, such as:

• Severe or increasing abdominal swelling
• Difficulty breathing or chest discomfort
• Persistent abdominal pain or pressure
• Nausea, vomiting, or significant loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight gain or swelling in other body parts

Our Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach

Detailed Symptom Review:

• Discussing the onset, severity, and progression of abdominal swelling.
• Identifying related symptoms like pain, nausea, or shortness of breath.

Medical History Evaluation:

• Reviewing existing liver, heart, or kidney conditions.Evaluating lifestyle factors, including alcohol use or medication history.

Advanced Diagnostic Tests:

• Paracentesis: A procedure to remove and analyze the abdominal fluid.
• CT Scan or MRI: Detailed imaging to identify the underlying cause.
• Ultrasound: To confirm fluid accumulation and assess abdominal organs.
• Blood Tests: Liver function tests, kidney panels, and infection screening.

Personalized Treatment Plans For You

At GastroDoxs, we create tailored treatment plans to manage ascites and address its root cause. Options include:

• Medications: Diuretics to help reduce fluid buildup and Antibiotics for infection-related ascites.
• Paracentesis: A procedure to safely drain excess fluid from the abdomen, providing relief.
• Nutritional Guidance: Low-sodium diets to manage fluid retention.
• Advanced Interventions: In severe cases, procedures like TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) may be considered to alleviate fluid buildup.