MANIFESTATIONS/ SYMPTOMS:

There may be no symptoms associated with ascites especially if it is mild (usually less than about 100 – 400 ml in adults).

As more fluid accumulates, increased abdominal girth and size are commonly seen.

Massive amounts may cause abdominal swelling (distention) and discomfort.

MANIFESTATIONS/ SYMPTOMS:

Abdominal pain, discomfort, and bloating are also frequently seen as ascites becomes larger. Shortness of breath can also happen with large ascites due to increased pressure on the diaphragm and the migration of the fluid across the diaphragm causing pleural effusions (fluid around the lungs). A cosmetically disfiguring large belly, due to ascites, is also a common concern of some patients.

Loss of appetiteWhen a doctor taps (percusses) the abdomen, the fluid makes a dull sound. When the abdominal cavity contains large amounts of fluid, the abdomen is taut, and the navel is flat or even pushed out. In some people with ascites, the ankles swell with excess fluid (edema).