What is cirrhosis and ascites?
Cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver, which can be caused by many different forms of liver diseases and conditions like hepatitis and chronic alcoholism. Ascites is the buildup of fluid in the space between the lining of the abdomen and abdominal organs, and most commonly the result of cirrhosis.
What causes cirrhosis and ascites?
Causes of cirrhosis can include:
- Chronic alcohol abuse
- Hepatitis B and C
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Genetic diseases like Wilson’s disease and hemochromatosis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Destruction or poor formation of bile ducts
- Inherited disorders of sugar metabolism (galactosemia or glycogen storage disease)
- Alagille syndrome, which is a genetic disorder
- Infections like syphilis or brucellosis
- Medications, including methotrexate or isoniazid
Aside from cirrhosis, which is the leading cause of ascites, ascites can also be caused by:
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Cancer
- Infections
To do your part in preventing cirrhosis and ascites, it’s best to limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, and cure underlying causes, like viral hepatitis.
What are symptoms of cirrhosis and ascites?
Symptoms of cirrhosis can include:
- Fatigue
- Easy bruising
- Swelling in the legs or abdomen
- Weight loss
- Confusion and difficulty thinking
In addition to these, symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite can indicate ascites that has transpired a result of cirrhosis.
How is cirrhosis and ascites diagnosed?
To best diagnose cirrhosis and/or ascites, your doctor will likely begin by ordering blood tests to check for liver function. Following that, imaging tests, like an MRI or ultrasound scan may be recommended, too. Once your doctor has a better idea of the extent of your condition, they may want a liver biopsy and/or a paracentesis, which is a test that analyzes fluid from the abdomen.
What are treatment options for cirrhosis and ascites?
Treating cirrhosis and ascites starts with treating the underlying cause of each. This can include:
- Lifestyle changes like reducing or stopping consumption of alcohol
- Medications to manage symptoms and complications
- Dietary changes, such as reducing sodium intake
- When warranted, your doctor may also recommend a paracentesis to drain excess fluid from the abdomen.
- In more severe cases, a liver transplant may recommend