Fluid Build-up Management

Fluid build-up in abdomen is also known as ascites, a common complication in cancer patients. The ascitic fluid is produced by the peritoneum, a membrane that surrounds the visceral organs. It is normal to have this fluid in the body in minimal amounts, however, in cancer patients, the cancer cells trigger excessive production of ascitic fluid causing ascites. When ascites occur due to cancer cells, the condition is known as malignant ascites. This condition indicates that the cancer is in its advanced form. 

Causes

When cancer spreads to the lining of the visceral organs, malignant ascites occur. It can also occur due to cardiac, renal, hepatic diseases.

Symptoms 

Here are symptoms of:

  • Weight gain in a short span without a substantial reason 
  • Abdominal swelling 
  • Difficulty breathing even at performing small tasks
  • Early satiety or feeling full earlier than usual 
  • Feeling bloated or full most of the time 
  • Constipation 
  • Feeling heavy
  • Indigestion or discomfort in the upper abdomen 
  • Change in shape or size of the navel
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue or tiredness even after performing minor tasks
  • Swelling of the ankles and other body parts

Why is fluid build-up management advised by doctors?
Malignant ascites not only affects patients physically, but also demotivates them to take further treatment. This condition also deteriorates the patient's quality of life. Some patients might discontinue further anti-cancer treatment. Moreover, the symptoms of ascites make usual living difficult in terms of breathing, eating and moving from one place to the other.

Complications of Ascites 

Like every untreated condition, ascites, too, have complications if left untreated. These include: 

  •  Hepatorenal syndrome
  •  Bacterial peritonitis - a life-threatening infection that occurs due to ascitic fluid 
  •  Protein malnutrition and weight loss

Doctors advise treating ascites to provide relief from its uncomfortable symptoms. If ascites is asymptomatic, treatment can be delayed. The benefits and risks of each option should be discussed with the doctor prior to starting treatment.  

Treatment 

Ascites may be treating by the following methods:

  • Treatment of the tumour : Treating the root cause of ascites, that is, the causative tumour itself can help cure ascites.
  • Diuresis : Taking diuretic drugs or water pills can relieve water retention and help remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity. Water pills act on the kidney and remove the excessive fluid through the urine. 
  • Paracentesis : Paracentesis is a procedure that helps drain the extra fluid and makes the patient feel more comfortable. In this procedure, a needle attached to a tube is inserted in the abdomen. The duration of paracentesis and its sessions depend on the amount of fluid present in the abdominal cavity.

Expertise of Action Cancer Hospital in fluid build-up management

Patients visit Action Cancer Hospital for the trust they have in our healthcare providers, who are dedicated to providing outstanding oncology care. Cancer affects not only one part of the body but every aspect of a person's life. And hence, we’re here to help you throughout your journey. 

At Action Cancer Hospital, we develop personalised treatment plans that combine advanced conventional treatments with supportive complementary medicine therapies. 

Our expert team provides cutting-edge and compassionate treatment for cancer care. We understand the difficulties that cancer patients face, which is why we offer a variety of cancer support programs and other services to help patients, families, and friends cope with the overwhelming challenges that come with cancer.


 

Request an Appointment

Disease & Treatment

View All

Ascites Drainage

Ascites drainage is a procedure to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity, commonly occurring in patients with liver disease or cancer. This intervention helps alleviate discomfort, swelling, and other symptoms associated with fluid accumulation.

Know more

Pleural Drainage

Pleural drainage is a procedure used to remove excess fluid from the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the chest wall. This is typically necessary for patients suffering from pleural effusions, which can cause difficulty breathing and chest discomfort.

Know more

Pleurodesis

Pleurodesis is a procedure used to prevent the recurrence of pleural effusions by causing the pleural layers to adhere together. This is achieved by introducing a chemical irritant or using mechanical means to create inflammation and subsequent fusion of the pleural surfaces, eliminating the space where fluid can accumulate.

Know more

Drainage Catheter

A drainage catheter is a temporary solution used to remove excess fluid from the body, such as in cases of pleural effusion or ascites. The catheter is inserted into the affected area, allowing for the controlled drainage of fluid to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

Know more

Tunnelled Catheter

A tunnelled catheter is a long-term solution for managing chronic fluid build-up, such as pleural effusions or ascites. This catheter is inserted under the skin and tunneled to the area of fluid accumulation, allowing for regular drainage to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Know more

Meet Our Doctors

Request Call Back

Emergency