How to prevent and control ascites
You cannot completely prevent ascites or avoid their causes. However, there are certain methods that help reduce the risk of some causes, such as heart disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, peritoneal infection, and cirrhosis.
You can prevent ascites using the following methods:
- Consuming whole foods rather than highly processed foods
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Eating a diet that contains high level of fresh fruits and vegetables and are low in added fats and salt
- Getting regular exercise
- Managing your body weight
- Following guidelines for preventing hepatitis, like asking your doctor about the hepatitis B vaccine and using a condom during sex to reduce the risk of infection
According to the National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, people with cirrhosis should follow these methods to prevent ascites:
- Reduce your consumption of protein and fat
- Stay away from alcohol
- Reduce the amount of salt in your diet
- Do not eat raw or undercooked fish, shellfish, or meat to reduce the risk of infection
You can contact your doctor to tell you more about how to prevent ascites.