Ascites

Treatment for ascites

If ascites is caused by cancer, treating the cancer will often relieve the buildup of fluid. (To learn more about different types of cancer treatment, see Treatment Types.)

If ascites is still a problem or the cancer can’t be treated, a procedure called a therapeutic paracentesis might be done to improve the symptoms. A needle is placed into the abdomen to drain and remove the extra fluid. Some people can have several liters of fluid removed at one time. However, if the underlying cause isn’t treated, the fluid will return, usually within a few weeks.

Some people might choose to have a peritoneal drain or catheter placed. It’s a small tube that stays in the belly for as long as a person needs it. The drain is connected to a bag and drained at home every few days or as needed. This means the person doesn’t have to go to an appointment or have a needle placed every time they need fluid removed.

Tips for managing ascites

Ascites can be very uncomfortable. Here are some things you can do to manage it:

• Limit or avoid salt, which can make you hold onto fluid and worsen swelling.
• Avoid alcohol, which can cause swelling and affect the liver.
• Ask your doctor before you take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. These medicines can cause swelling and damage the liver.

Talk to your doctor or cancer care team

If you have ascites, it’s important to talk to your doctor about new or worsening symptoms. Tell them if you have:

• Swelling in your belly that is getting worse
• Gain more than ten pounds in one week
• Have fevers or signs of infection without a known cause

Ask your doctor or cancer care team what you should call right away for versus what can wait until office hours.