Ascites :
Ascites is the collection of fluid in spaces within the abdomen. Ascites can be painful in severe cases and can also lead to an infection in the abdomen. The main cause of ascites is liver cirrhosis which is caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Sometimes, advanced or recurrent cancer can also cause ascites. Symptoms of ascites include swelling in the abdomen, bloating, weight gain, vomiting, nausea or indigestion, shortness of breath, etc. Ascites can be diagnosed by drawing out fluid sample with the help of a needle (paracentesis) or by using imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan of the abdomen.