Information provided by Healthline.com

Ascites Health Article

Licensed from Print
Table of Contents
Reviewer Info: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 10/26/2006

Definition

Ascites is excess fluid in the space between the tissues lining the abdomen and abdominal organs (the peritoneal cavity).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Ascites is typically caused by liver disease. Disorders that may be associated with ascites include:

Treatment

Treatment may include medicines called diuretics, which help remove the fluid, and antibiotics, if infection develops.

Calling your health care provider

Anyone who has ascites and develops new abdominal pain and fever should contact their health care provider immediately.

advertisement

Back to Top Print

Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of our Terms and Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.