R10-R19: Symptoms and signs involving the digestive system and abdomen

R18: Ascites

The abdominal organs are located in the abdomen. The abdomen is lined from within with a membrane. The membrane is made up of individual cells. These cells normally release a small amount of fluid into the abdomen. Thanks to this fluid, the organs can move and slide past each other.

Too much fluid has accumulated around the organs in your abdomen. There are various reasons for this. The fluid can build up when the liver is inflamed or scarred. Altered cells in the abdomen can also lead to too much fluid building up.

Fluid building up in the abdominal cavity usually results in the abdomen being thicker than normal. You may also have a feeling of pressure in your abdomen.