Why Is My Stomach Swollen?

Understanding Ascites in Simple Terms

What is Ascites?

Ascites is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, the space within the abdomen that houses organs like the liver, stomach, and intestines.

Common Causes of Ascites

1. Liver Cirrhosis : Caused any way [ Alcohol, Fatty liver (Non alcoholic) , NSAIDs(painkillers) induced etc]

2. Heart Failure

3. Kidney diseases (Nephrotic syndrome)

4. Abdominal TB

5. Some Cancers

6. Rare vascular conditions (Budd Chiari Syndrome)

Symptoms

Abdominal swelling and bloating
Rapid weight gain
Feeling of fullness or pressure
Loss of appetite
Shortness of breath
Swollen ankles or legs
Fatigue

How is Ascites Diagnosed?

To accurately diagnose ascites and its underlying cause, doctors typically perform a combination of the following tests:

Physical Examination: A swollen abdomen with a fluid wave can suggest ascites.
Ultrasound or CT Scan: Imaging tests help confirm fluid accumulation and identify the source.
Blood Tests: Liver and kidney function tests can pinpoint the root cause.
Paracentesis: A small sample of abdominal fluid is drawn with a needle and analyzed for infection, cancer cells, or other abnormalities.

Treatment Options for Ascites

1. Lifestyle Modification

Salt restriction
Fluid restriction

2. Medications

Diuretics : Medications like spironolactone and furosemide help the body eliminate excess fluid
Antibiotics : Prescribed if there’s an infection in the ascitic fluid.

3. Paracentesis

A procedure to drain large volumes of fluid, offering immediate relief. It is especially helpful in refractory ascites (resistant to medications).

4. TIPS

A procedure to reduce portal hypertension in patients with cirrhosis, helping to control ascites in advanced cases.

5. Liver Transplantation

For patients with end-stage liver disease, a transplant may be the only long-term solution

Prevention and Management

While not all cases of ascites are preventable, certain steps can lower the risk:

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Maintain a healthy weight
Manage chronic diseases like hepatitis or heart failure
Regular medical checkups for early detection

Conclusion

Ascites is a Life-changing condition that often signals advanced liver disease or other critical illnesses. Early detection, proper diagnosis, and a personalized treatment plan are essential to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you experience persistent abdominal swelling or discomfort, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.

Ascites