Ascites Treatment Options: Understanding and Managing Fluid Buildup

Ascites is marked by the presence of too much fluid in the peritoneal cavity. This can cause an uncomfortably distended abdomen and trouble breathing as the peritoneal cavity puts pressure on the diaphragm. Though often caused by liver disease, ascites can also be a sign of cancer. Ascites can be treated several ways.

Diuretics

• Diuretic drugs cause the kidneys to release more water into the urine, thereby eliminating excess fluid in the abdomen.

Limit Salt

• Salt causes the body to retain water, which will only exacerbate ascites.Llimit salt intake to only 4 to 5 grams a day.

Limit Alcohol

• Excessive consumption of alcohol can damage the liver. Cirrhosis due to alcohol abuse causes scar tissue to build up in the liver and limit blood flow in and out of the organ. This causes excess fluid to leak from the liver, resulting in ascites. Therefore, ceasing to consume alcohol is crucial to alleviating ascites.

Therapeutic Paracentesis

• Therapeutic paracentesis is a medical procedure by which excess fluid is drained from the body with a needle. This is a treatment for persistent, diuretic-resistant ascites.