Ascites refers to the accumulation of the additional fluid within your belly that may make your stomach to appear full, tight or even swollen. It is normally associated with liver disease although in some cases it may be caused by any heart disease, kidney or cancer related diseases.
You may notice ascites if you experience:
Fluid accumulates in the abdomen when key organs aren't functioning properly. Common causes include:
Being patient-centered in its work and offering a holistic approach to the treatment of abdominal distension and its complications, GastroDoxs offers quality diagnostics and effective management of abdominal distension and its symptoms. We are based on the principles of caring, individualized care in order to assist you in reaching lasting relief and a higher 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.
Main symptoms include a rapidly swelling belly, a feeling of fullness after small meals, abdominal pressure against the skin, and sudden weight gain over a few days. A doctor can confirm ascites through physical examination or ultrasound.
Abdominal fat is soft and non-tender, whereas ascites causes the abdomen to be stiff, distended, and tender. A medical professional can differentiate them via physical exam or imaging.
Yes. Ascites may temporarily improve with treatment, but unless the underlying condition is addressed, the fluid often returns.
The abdomen may appear rounded, stretched, or tight, with visible veins, stretch marks, or a generally distended shape.
Treatment includes a low-salt diet, diuretics (water pills) to reduce fluid, and paracentesis to remove excess fluid. Addressing the underlying cause, such as liver or heart disease, is also essential.
The ICD-10 code for malignant ascites is R18.8.
Alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites: K70.30
Non-alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites: K74.60
GastroDoxs in Katy provides specialized care for managing ascites, using advanced diagnostics, clear treatment plans, and the support of experienced gastroenterologists.
Long-term care involves maintaining a low-salt diet, taking prescribed diuretics, monitoring fluid intake, and attending regular follow-up appointments to track and manage the condition.
