Ascites is
a symptom that occurs when large amounts of fluid pool in your
abdomen. The fluid can cause a sense of fullness and make your
clothes fit tightly. The effects of the fluid can be managed
with the care outlined in this guide.
Learning Needs You will need to know how to live with the
fluid in your abdomen. You will learn how to handle pain if it
occurs. You will learn how to adjust to the symptoms and when to
call for help.
Management
1.Diet: There are no limits to your diet. Try to eat
foods high in protein and calories. Small, frequent meals (up to
6 meals a day) may be easier for you to eat.
2. Pain control: Rate your pain daily using a scale of 0
to 10 in which 0 equals no pain and 10 equals the worst pain
that you can imagine.
3. Activity: There are no limits to your activities. You
should do what you feel like doing. Rest periods may be helpful.
Elevate your feet/legs when sitting.
4. Diary: Keep a record of your daily pain rating and
activity level on the Bring this with you when you come for your
next visit with your nurse or doctor.
Follow-up Call your nurse or doctor if any of the
following occurs:
- A weight gain so that your clothes do not fit
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Nausea, vomiting
- Increase in pain rating to above 4 for 2 days in a row
