Ascites is the collection of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, causing abdominal swellings. Symptoms include abdominal swelling, distension and discomfort, increase of weight, and shortness of Breath. It commonly causes bacterial peritonitis.

Causes include Liver Cirrhosis, Cancer, Heart disease, Tuberculosis, Pancreatitis and blockage of the Hepatic Vein. Liver Cirrhosis is the most common cause in the developed world.

Diagnosis is based on examination along with Ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment with modern medicine involves low salt diet, diuretic and draining the fluid.

In Traditional Medicine, it is universally viewed as accumulation of Water or Damp/Phlegm. In some cases it is also associated with Yang Deficiency (which allows Water/Phlegm/Damp to accumulate). In addition, TCM views some cases as obstruction by Blood Stasis.

In the treatment of Ascites, often Hydragogue Cathartics are used to pass water through the bowels These medicines must only be used in strong individuals and are not suitable for use in the weak. These same Cathartics have sometimes been applied externally to the abdomen to avoid internal irritation.

NOTE:
Ascites is a serious condition and is often associated with terminal disease. Cause should be investigated by modern medicine before any treatment is given.

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Sample Formula

1. External Formulas:
i. Euphorbia Gan Sui with Licorice applied as a plaster to the navel
ii. Xiaozhang Tie (a medicated plaster of TCM
  Euphorbia Gan Sui
  Rhubarb (Da Huang)
  Radish seed (Lai Fu Zi)
  Aloeswood (Chen Xiang)
  Clove (Ding Xiang)
  Borneo Camphor (Bing Pian)
  Artificial Musk (Ren Gong She Xiang)
This has been clinically studied and found effective in Cirrhotic Ascites. (See here)

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