I thought I would post a conclusion on this thread in case anyone searches for ascites on the site.

It would seem from my conversations with members of the medical team that once a patient has ascites as a complication of cancer there's nothing one can do in terms of diet or lifestyle to slow the build-up of fluid down.  I think it might be different if the ascites has another cause (e.g. liver disease).  So although my husband has now been discharged the ascites can only build up again; I think about 17 ltres was draned in the course of 7 days, but he can't stay in hospital for ever.  If it gets bad again, we have to go to A&E and he would be admitted to have it drained again.  The other option will be to have a permanent drain fitted which he could open and close himself when necessary, but he didn't want that option just yet.

Be aware folks that we are outside the UK and I think this might be handled differently in the NHS.  Where we are, patient support groups are lacking so we don't have the option of speaking to a patient who is managing such a drain. Luckily for us the national cancer centre is very close to where we live and if we go to A & E my husband is seen by the oncologist on call.

Expat

Hi expat

I am sorry to read that your husbands choices are so limited.I just wanted to say best wishes for the days ahead.

emma

Hi expat

I am sorry to read that your husbands choices are so limited.I just wanted to say best wishes for the days ahead.

emma