
Early symptoms of hepatic ascites
I have been feeling some discomfort in my abdomen lately. I'm not sure if it might be ascites. What are the early symptoms of ascites?

Initial symptoms of hepatic ascites mainly include the following:
1. Abdominal distension: This is the most obvious symptom of hepatic ascites. Patients may feel their abdomen gradually enlarging, similar to pregnancy. Initially, there may only be a mild sensation of bloating, but as the volume of ascites increases, the abdomen becomes visibly swollen, sometimes even affecting breathing and walking.
2. Weight gain: Due to the accumulation of large amounts of fluid in the body, patients may experience significant weight gain within a short period. This weight gain is unrelated to diet but rather reflects the weight of the accumulated fluid in the abdominal cavity.
3. Lower limb edema: In addition to fluid accumulation in the abdomen, hepatic ascites can also cause swelling in the lower limbs. This occurs because, when liver function is impaired, the body's ability to regulate water balance decreases, leading to fluid accumulation not only in the abdominal cavity but also in other areas of the body.
4. Fatigue and weakness: Patients may experience unusual tiredness and a decrease in physical stamina, which is a common manifestation of impaired liver function.
5. Loss of appetite and indigestion: Due to compromised liver function, patients may suffer from reduced appetite and digestive problems.
If the above symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is advised.