1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Ascites
Ascites occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity due to liver disease, heart or kidney failure, cancer, or infections. Understanding its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options-from dietary changes and diuretics to advanced procedures-can help you manage this condition.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Ascites?
Ascites is a condition where excess fluid collects in the abdominal cavity. It most often results from liver dysfunction (like cirrhosis) but can also be caused by heart failure, kidney disease, cancers, or infections.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Cirrhosis - chronic liver scarring that blocks normal blood flow
Heart failure - weakened heart function leads to fluid retention
Abdominal cancers - tumors can leak fluid into the belly
Tuberculosis or hepatitis - infectious inflammation of the liver or peritoneum
Signs and Symptoms
Abdominal bloating or visible swelling
Feeling of pressure or fullness after small meals
Rapid, unexplained weight gain
Shortness of breath due to upward pressure on the diaphragm
Discomfort when bending over, walking, or lying flat
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He asks about your pain-onset, location, quality, and triggers-as well as your diet, alcohol/NSAID use, and family history. A focused abdominal exam checks for epigastric tenderness, rebound, or signs of gallbladder irritation.
Blood Tests
We draw labs to look for inflammation or organ injury:
CBC (complete blood count) to detect anemia or infection
Liver function tests (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin)
Amylase and lipase to screen for pancreatitis
H. pylori breath or antibody test if ulcer disease is suspected
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to check gallstones, bile duct dilation, and pancreatic changes
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers or reflux damage
CT scan of the abdomen when complications (pancreatitis, perforation) need evaluation
Advanced Testing (if needed)
For unclear cases or persistent symptoms, Dr. Scott may recommend:
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for detailed imaging of the pancreas and biliary tree
Gastric emptying study if gastroparesis is suspected
Esophageal manometry or pH monitoring for refractory reflux symptoms
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for ascites.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Low-sodium diet plans to help reduce fluid retention
Guidance on safe fluid restriction and monitoring intake
Light, tailored exercise programs to improve comfort and mobility
2. Medications
Diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, furosemide) to help remove excess fluid
Regular electrolyte and kidney‐function monitoring to ensure safety
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Office-based paracentesis for safe, same-day fluid drainage
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) for refractory or recurrent ascites
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes ascites in cirrhosis?
Liver scarring raises pressure in blood vessels, which pushes fluid into the belly.
How long can you live with ascites?
With the right care, many people manage ascites for years. Early treatment helps improve outcomes.
Is ascites curable?
It depends on the cause. Treatment can manage symptoms, and in some cases, a liver transplant may be a cure.
Is paracentesis painful?
Most patients only feel slight pressure. Dr. Scott numbs the area first.
Can diet fix ascites on its own?
A low-sodium diet helps, but most people also need medications or other treatments.
What is the ICD-10 code for ascites?
It's R18.9 (ascites, unspecified). You'll see it in your medical record.
Are there support groups in Houston?
Yes. Some liver disease groups meet monthly at local medical centers.
