Ascites is a condition where excess fluid collects in the abdomen, causing your belly to swell and feel tight. This buildup puts pressure on internal organs and can lead to discomfort and breathing difficulties. A gastroenterologist can diagnose ascites through a physical exam and ultrasound. Early detection is key to preventing complications.
You might notice:
Ascites can result from several underlying conditions:
If you're experiencing symptoms of ascites, don't wait to seek help. At GastroDoxs, our Houston-based, board-certified liver and GI specialists offer personalized treatment plans, from dietary guidance and diuretics to paracentesis and advanced catheter placement. We combine compassionate, patient-centered care with state-of-the-art diagnostics to manage your fluid buildup and improve your quality of life. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Early signs of ascites include mild abdominal bloating, a feeling of fullness after eating small meals, and slight rapid weight gain or waistline expansion.
The general ICD-10 code for ascites is R18.
Ascites is diagnosed through a physical exam (shifting dullness or fluid wave), abdominal ultrasound, and sometimes diagnostic paracentesis (fluid analysis).
Ascites typically indicates decompensated cirrhosis, corresponding to Stage 3 or 4 liver disease, where the liver can no longer maintain normal fluid balance.
Yes. Restricting sodium intake to under 2 grams per day reduces fluid retention and helps control ascites when combined with other treatments.
Life expectancy varies based on the underlying cause, treatment adherence, and overall health. With proper management, many patients maintain a good quality of life for years.
Cirrhosis with ascites means advanced liver scarring has led to impaired blood flow and low albumin levels, causing fluid to accumulate in the abdominal cavity.
Yes. Many medical resources and your provider can supply educational images showing mild abdominal fluid accumulation for reference.
Board-certified gastroenterologists and hepatologists at GastroDoxs specialize in diagnosing and managing ascites for patients in the Houston area.
Ascites becomes an emergency if you experience severe abdominal pain, high fever, rapid breathing, or signs of infection (spontaneous bacterial peritonitis) and require immediate medical care.
