Ascites Flashcards
1
Q
What is ascites?
A
an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal/peritoneal cavity
2
Q
What causes ascites?
A
- cirrhosis, which can lead to portal hypertension, which can lead to ascites
- right-sided heart failure (d/t abdominal organ distension)
- severe changes in hydrostatic pressure and/or osmotic pressure
- water/sodium retention (increases blood volume and thus hydrostatic pressure causing fluid to move out of vessels)
3
Q
What are the main manifestations of ascites?
A
1) dyspnea
2) abdominal distension
4
Q
How is ascites treated?
A
- diuretics for small volume (under 5 litres)
- give fluids and electrolytes to correct imbalance
- for large volumes, paracentesis and volume expanders (ex. albumin)
