Difference between ascites and belly fat

[Linzenilss38]

Hello I have gained more weight in my belly area. How do I tell the difference between the two?

[AyrshireK]

Severe/sudden ascites can feel hard, but in general, fat has thicker, more solid feel to it compared to the fluid of ascites. You can usually grab a handful of flesh if it's fat; more difficult to do this with ascites.

Abdominal fat can be sucked in, to a certain extent; ascites cannot. The abdominal muscles are not forcefully stretched out in the former, while they are in the latter.

Best way to find out for sure is to go and see a doctor for a physical examination.

[Linzenilss38 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks for the response I can grab it and it has movement. Not hard at all. I’ve decided to quit drinking after daily year and a half. I was on another sight and the woman said she has alcoholic cirrhosis from only one year of drinking and had ascites. I’m just hoping it’s weight gain I have probably from the calories in the liquor

[AyrshireK in reply to Linzenilss38]

Sounds like 'lockdown tummy' - mines is certainly feeling the affects of too much good home baking.

[Linzenilss38 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks I added more to my response above!

[Linzenilss38 in reply to AyrshireK]

Would you be able to see the ascites fluid move. When I tap my belly it’s like a wave

[AyrshireK in reply to Linzenilss38]

No idea, fortunately it's not something hubby has had so i've no physical experience of it other than seeing gents in the hospital who looked 9+ months pregnant.

[Hidden]

Hi Linz,

As Katie has already suggested, the best way is to have a clinical examination by your doctor.

Best wishes.

[Hidden]

Definitely get it checked by a doctor. Ascitic fluid is gravity dependent and needs to be percussed by a doctor in supine and side lying for suspicion to arise, followed by ultrasound for confirmation.

It can hide in the lower abdomen and pelvis for a while before you see it higher up and then in the lower legs. It could be suspected as part of the bigger clinical picture if everyday, your weight was creeping up consistently on the scales, with weighing at the same time every day.

Eventually you may notice you are unable to eat very much and might have pain around other organs from the pressure.

Your bloods would probably be deranged and low in protein if you have ascites. Also if your arms and legs are getting thinner and your tummy is getting bigger, it can be an indication.

It’s hard to self diagnose when you’ve never had it, but if you have, you know pretty quickly. Check with your doctor if you are worried, good luck 🤞