Ascites
Ascites (ay-SITE-eez) is when too much fluid builds up in your abdomen (belly). This condition often happens in people who have cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver. A sheet of tissue called the peritoneum covers the abdominal organs, including the stomach, bowels, liver and kidneys. The peritoneum has two layers. Ascites happens when fluid builds up between the two layers.
What are risk factors for ascites?
Having a condition that causes cirrhosis puts you at greater risk for developing ascites. These conditions include:- Non-alcohol associated fatty liver disease.
- Hepatitis B.
- Hepatitis C.
- Alcohol use disorder.
- Autoimmune hepatitis.
- Genetic liver diseases like hemochromatosis, Wilson disease and alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency.