Ascites (a build up of fluid in the abdomen)

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. 

Advanced cancer can sometimes cause a build up of fluid in the tummy. This is called ascites. Treatments include draining the fluid, medicines to help get rid of the fluid and cancer drugs.

Find out about long term drains for fluid on the abdomen (ascites) and how they work.

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.