Ask a doctor - What leads to the development of ascites?

Q. What leads to the development of ascites?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Ascites is a condition where there's an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, leading to swelling and discomfort. Several factors can contribute to the development of ascites:

1. Liver Disease: The most common cause of ascites is liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a condition where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue due to long-term damage, often from alcohol abuse, hepatitis B or C infection, or other liver diseases. When the liver is scarred, it can't function properly, leading to increased pressure in the blood vessels surrounding it. This pressure forces fluid to leak out into the abdominal cavity, causing ascites.

2. Heart Failure: When the heart doesn't pump blood effectively, it can lead to fluid buildup in the body, including the abdomen. Heart failure can cause the kidneys to retain sodium and water, which increases fluid volume and contributes to ascites.

3. Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as liver, ovarian, pancreatic, or stomach cancer, can spread to the peritoneal cavity (the space around the abdominal organs), causing fluid accumulation.

4. Kidney Disease: Kidney diseases that lead to low protein levels in the blood (hypoalbuminemia) can result in fluid retention and ascites. This is because proteins like albumin help maintain fluid balance in the body, and when levels are low, fluid can leak into the abdomen.

5. Infections: Infections like peritonitis, which is inflammation of the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity), can lead to ascites. Peritonitis can be caused by various factors, including bacterial infections, tuberculosis, or pancreatitis.

6. Malnutrition: Severe malnutrition can lead to low levels of protein in the blood, which can contribute to ascites development.

7. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, either acute or chronic, can lead to ascites due to the release of enzymes and inflammation affecting the abdominal cavity.

8. Certain Medications: Some medications, particularly those that affect kidney function or increase sodium retention, can contribute to fluid accumulation and ascites.

9. Other Factors: Other factors such as congestive splenomegaly (enlarged spleen), venous obstruction (blockage of blood vessels), and certain genetic conditions can also lead to ascites.

It's important to note that ascites is often a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs to be diagnosed and treated by a healthcare professional. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, along with medications to reduce fluid buildup and sometimes procedures to drain excess fluid from the abdomen.