Skip to Content
UW Health SMPH

Ascites

Picture of ascites

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Ascites is the buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Many diseases can cause ascites, including liver disease and some cancers.

Ascites can be uncomfortable. The extra fluid also can cause your belly to swell and make it hard for you to breathe. The condition usually is treated with medicine and diet. But the fluid may have to be removed with a needle for severe ascites.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Michel M. Murr, MD - General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery
Last Revised December 13, 2011

Last Revised: December 13, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Michel M. Murr, MD - General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2013 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.