Generally speaking, ascites refers to a fluid increase in the aforementioned cavity which is abnormal. A number of different health conditions can lead to fluid accumulation and the possible reason why ascites form can be different based on each unique characteristic of each disease.
Cancer that has spread to the peritoneum can lead to leakage of fluid that is direct while other forms of diseases can lead to the buildup of sodium and water in the body. The said fluid can then result in the peritoneal cavity leakage. This is because individuals with a healthy liver will usually have regular oncotic pressure to hold water in the blood. To diagnose edema, your doctor may check whether the skin over the swollen area indents when pressed. He or she will likely ask you questions about recent weight gain, tightness of clothes or jewelry, and other symptoms.
You may also need to have blood and urine tests and x-rays. Relieving side effects is an important part of cancer care and treatment. This is called palliative care or supportive care. Talk with your health care team about any symptoms you experience, including any new symptoms or a change in symptoms.
Managing edema focuses on treating the underlying cause of fluid buildup. Edema caused by drugs or poor nutrition can be fixed in some people.
Edema caused by cancer or by kidney, heart, or liver problems may be more difficult to treat. These include:. Be sure to follow your healthcare provider's advice for lowering your salt intake. You'll need to do this even if you're taking diuretic drugs to reduce fluid in your body.
Also, weigh yourself daily and call your healthcare provider if you gain too much weight. Health Home Conditions and Diseases. What causes ascites? What are the symptoms of ascites? These are symptoms of ascites: Swelling in the abdomen Weight gain Sense of fullness Bloating Sense of heaviness Nausea or indigestion Vomiting Swelling in the lower legs Shortness of breath Hemorrhoids How is ascites diagnosed? You may also have tests such as: Fluid sample. A sample of fluid from your abdomen may be taken using a needle.
This fluid will be checked for signs of disease, such as cancer or an infection. This test may help point to the cause of the ascites. Your healthcare provider may request images of the inside of your abdomen using ultrasound, MRI, or a CT scan. An MRI creates images using a magnetic field and radiofrequency energy. A CT scan creates computerized images using X-rays.
How is ascites treated? Ascites is excess fluid buildup in the belly abdomen because of pressure from tumors. It can make the belly hard and swollen distended. Patients with ascites may also have nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Sometimes the fluid also pushes on lungs which can cause difficulty breathing. Ascites is common in some cancers that have reached the advanced stages and spread in the abdominal area, including cancer of the ovary, liver, colon, stomach, or pancreas.
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