What Is Ascites?
8. Treatment and Management
The treatment and management of the patient depends on the underlying cause of the ascites. Generally, the patient will have a sodium restriction to decrease the amount of fluid retained in the body. Diuretics can be beneficial to reduce the amount of fluid in the body. For rapid relief of the symptoms, therapeutic paracentesis (abdominal tapping) can be valuable.
Albumin or electrolyte supplements may be given. An automated pump or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) can be effective for those with refractory ascites (if applicable to the underlying cause). Consultation with a hepatologist or gastrointestinal specialist should be considered. A nutritionist may be required to counsel the patient regarding sodium restriction.
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