According to the Merck Manual, ascites is defined as an accumulation of fluid containing protein in the abdominal cavity. The abdomen can swell and become very large, causing shortness of breath and other complications. Diuretics, or medications that help the body excrete fluid, are often prescribed, as well as a low fluid, low sodium diet. Liver conditions such as cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis are the usual cause, but many other chronic conditions, such as cancer, heart failure, kidney failure and pancreatitis, can cause ascites.
Spontaneous Peritonitis
The excess abdominal fluid can become infected, causing spontaneous peritonitis according to the National Institutes of Health. Bacteria or fungus can cause the abdominal fluid and the lining of the abdomen, the peritonitis, to become infected. This causes severe abdominal pain, tenderness and bloating. Fever, chills, joint pain, nausea and vomiting can also occur.
Kidney Failure
According to the National Institutes of Health, ascites can be accompanied by hepatorenal syndrome, or kidney failure. Ascites may cause less urine to be removed from the body, and waste products build up in the blood. Excess nitrogen in the waste products is dangerous, causing liver damage and kidney failure. Decreased urine production with dark, concentrated urine is a symptom along with altered mental status and yellowing of the skin.
Hepatic Encephalopathy
Altered mental status including confusion, changes in alertness level and coma can occur from hepatic encephalopathy when ascites is present. Hepatic encephalopathy, or the loss of brain function that occurs from liver damage, as discussed by the National Institutes of Health. The symptoms may begin slowly and worsen over time, so any changes in mental status should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.
