Ascites is the build-up of extra fluid in your abdomen, which can make your stomach feel full, tight, or swollen. It's commonly linked to liver disease but can also result from heart, kidney, or cancer-related conditions.
You may notice ascites if you experience:
Fluid accumulates in the abdomen when key organs aren't functioning properly. Common causes include:
With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive digestive health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for abdominal distension and related conditions. Our approach is rooted in compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve long-term relief and improved quality of life. Ready to feel better? Book an Appointment Today with our ascites specialists in Katy and take the first step toward lasting symptom control.
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.
Ascites is pronounced "uh-SY-teez."
Key signs include a rapidly growing or swollen belly, feeling full after small meals, abdominal pressure, and quick weight gain over a few days. A doctor can confirm with a physical exam or ultrasound.
Belly fat feels soft and remains in place, while ascites makes the abdomen feel firm, distended, and tight. A healthcare provider can distinguish them via examination or imaging.
Yes-ascites may improve with treatment, but if the underlying cause isn't managed, fluid often reaccumulates.
The abdomen appears rounded, stretched, or tight. You may also notice visible veins, stretch marks, or an overall distended silhouette.
Treatment typically involves a low-salt diet, diuretics (water pills) to reduce fluid, and paracentesis to drain excess fluid. Addressing the root cause-such as liver or heart disease-is also essential.
The ICD-10 code for malignant ascites is R18.8.
The ICD-10 code for alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites is K70.30, and for non-alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites it's K74.60.
GastroDoxs in Katy offers expert care for ascites, using advanced diagnostics, clear care plans, and compassionate support from experienced gastroenterologists.
Long-term management includes adhering to a low-salt diet, taking prescribed diuretics, monitoring fluid intake, and attending regular follow-up appointments for ongoing evaluation.
