The term swelling and edema can be used interchangeably, whereas ascites are specifically used for abdominal swelling. Swelling or edema and ascites are side effects of cancer and cancer treatment.
Swelling or edema is a condition developed due to the accumulation of fluids in the body tissues. The accumulation of fluids may occur due to certain medicines, problems related to the heart, liver, or kidney, certain infections, and tumors, or blockage of the lymph nodes (lymphedema).
Swelling is a generalized term for edema, it is recognized by puffiness of the skin. Signs of edema include –
It can be diagnosed clinically by a physician or medical professional without requiring any diagnostic tool.
It can be confirmed clinically by putting your finger on the affected part.
Apply finger pressure on the leg for few seconds and then observe.
A hollow will appear on that point.
If this gap takes more than 30 seconds to fill, it is edema.
Ascites is a word used for the accumulation of excess free fluids in the abdomen or belly due to pressure from the presence of tumors. The fluid in the ascites may push the lungs.
Sign and symptoms of ascites
Diagnosis of ascites
It is diagnosed with the help of an ultrasound test. In severe cases, a general physician can confirm its presence by checking with his hands.
2. Cancer cells can spread to the liver which results in high fluid pressure.
Cancers in which Swelling, Edema, and Ascites are the common side effect
Ways to manage Swelling, Edema, and Ascites
Visit your doctor if there are the following sign and symptoms –
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