Can ascites be drained in patients with hepatic ascites?

Whether ascites should be drained in cases of hepatic ascites depends on the specific clinical situation. If the volume of ascites is large, drainage is generally feasible; however, if the volume is small, paracentesis is usually not recommended. Patients experiencing discomfort should seek medical attention promptly and receive treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Hepatic ascites refers to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity caused by liver diseases, commonly seen in conditions such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Common symptoms include abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and bloating. When significant ascites is present, it may cause severe abdominal fullness and even lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and dyspnea. In such cases, appropriate drainage of ascitic fluid can help alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms.

If the amount of ascites is small and the nature of the fluid has been clearly diagnosed, paracentesis is generally not advised, as it may potentially harm the liver. When performing paracentesis for hepatic ascites, the volume of fluid removed should be limited to prevent adverse effects associated with rapid or excessive drainage, such as hepatic encephalopathy and electrolyte imbalances.

During treatment, patients should adhere to a low-salt diet, avoiding high-sodium foods such as cured meats and sausages. Adequate rest is also important, and patients should avoid physical overexertion and emotional fluctuations to promote recovery.