Ascities

Discharge Instructions

This brochure provides information for care at home after discharge. These measures can provide
comfort during recovery. If you have any queries or problems, please feel free to ask your doctor or
nurse.

We wish you a speedy recovery

Ascites
Ascites is an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity. It is most commonly due to cirrhosis and severe
liver disease.

Medication
You may start your routine medicine as per your doctor’s instructions. He may start you on oral antibiotics if
infection is suspected. You will also be on the medication which will remove excess water from your body.

Diet
Avoid table salt, salty foods, salted butter and margarine and all ordinary canned and frozen foods. Instead of
salt take lemon and black pepper for taste. Eat fresh food, avoiding canned or processed foods, which are
usually preserved with sodium.

Pain
Ideally there should no pain in the abdominal cavity; however if there is infection, you may feel pain and
follow-up with the doctor is then necessary.

Activity
On discharge you may resume your routine activates as tolerated. You need to restrict the activity if you feel
short of breath.

Warning signs
You need to contact your doctor or rush to Emergency if you develop the following signs and symptoms:
• Abdominal distension
• Abdominal heaviness
• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal discomfort
• Skin tightness around the abdomen
• Swelling in legs
• Fever

For further information please call

Nurse Case Manager Coordinator, Emergency Room
Oncology Tel 493 0051, Ext: 1090-91
Monday to Friday Direct: 3486 1090 or 3486 1091
7:00 am to 4:00 pm
Tel: 3493 0051; Ext: 4290- 4291
Pager # 7920