Living with Ascites: My Struggle with Excessive Fluid Build-up

💧Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and is a common symptom of liver disease.

💉Parasynesis is a procedure that involves removing fluid from the abdomen using a needle, providing temporary relief for ascites patients.

🚶Ascites can significantly affect mobility and make everyday tasks challenging for patients.

😰Living with ascites is physically and emotionally taxing, causing discomfort and stress for patients.

📆Frequent draining procedures, although necessary, can be invasive and increase the risk of infection for ascites patients.

What causes ascites?

—Ascites is primarily caused by liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. It can also result from other conditions like heart failure or cancer.

How is ascites diagnosed?

—Ascites can be diagnosed through a physical examination, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan, and analysis of the fluid collected through paracentesis.

Can ascites be cured?

—Ascites itself is a symptom and not a disease, so the underlying condition causing it needs to be treated. In some cases, lifestyle changes, medication, or surgical intervention may help manage ascites.

Are there any complications of ascites?

—Yes, ascites can lead to complications such as infection, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, kidney problems, hernias, and malnutrition.

How can ascites be managed?

—Managing ascites involves treating the underlying cause, restricting salt intake, taking diuretic medications, draining fluid through paracentesis, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits.

00:00The speaker shares their experience of suffering from ascites, a condition characterized by fluid build-up in the abdomen.

00:12Parasynesis procedures were frequently performed to remove the excess fluid, but it was uncomfortable and taxing for the speaker.

00:33The fluid build-up in the abdomen affected the speaker's breathing and mobility, making it difficult to eat and move around.

01:16Living with ascites added to the challenges of liver failure and kidney problems.

01:38Regular draining procedures were necessary every two weeks for the speaker, causing fear and inconvenience.