Can liver ascites be cured?
A while ago, my grandfather didn't feel well, and after taking him to the hospital for examination, he was diagnosed with cirrhosis with ascites. I would like to ask, is this contagious?
Doctor's answer (1)
Ascites can generally be treated effectively.
Ascites is the most common complication among patients with cirrhosis. The main symptoms include abdominal distension, mild abdominal pain, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and swelling of the lower limbs. Once ascites develops, timely management is necessary, including restricting sodium chloride and fluid intake. Additionally, diuretic medications such as furosemide and spironolactone can be used to effectively control ascites. If the volume of ascites is large, paracentesis (removal of ascitic fluid via abdominal puncture) can be considered as a treatment option.
If the underlying cause is reversible, such as in alcoholic liver disease or viral hepatitis, measures like abstinence from alcohol and antiviral therapy can effectively control disease progression, and in some patients, ascites may improve or even resolve completely. However, for patients with severe liver dysfunction who have progressed to the decompensation stage, although symptoms can be temporarily relieved through diuretics, albumin infusion, and paracentesis, the condition is difficult to cure completely.
Patients should eat more vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in high-quality protein, and also consume adequate carbohydrates, which can reduce protein consumption and help protect liver function.
