Ascites is a build up of fluid in the abdomen (tummy). It can be caused by some types of cancer. It can also be caused by other health conditions.

Doctors can treat or control the ascites. But unfortunately, ascites caused by cancer can mean the cancer is advanced.

What is ascites?

Ascites is the medical name for a build up of fluid in the tummy (abdomen). If the ascites is caused by cancer it can also be called malignant ascites. Symptoms can include your clothes feeling tight and bloating.

Treatment for ascites

The main treatment for ascites is draining the fluid. This is called an abdominal paracentesis. Your doctor may also give you medicines to help get rid of the fluid. Or you might have cancer drugs to try to control the cancer, which may stop the fluid building up.

Long term drains to treat ascites

If the ascites comes back after you have had it drained, your doctor may recommend a long term drain. This can stay in for several months. You might be able to drain the fluid yourself. Or a nurse may go to your home to do it.

Ascites resources and support

There are lots of organisations and support groups to help you cope with the symptoms and side effects caused by cancer and its treatment. There is also more details of support groups on the resources page of each cancer type.

Last reviewed: 
08 May 2024
Next review due: 
08 May 2027