Table 4.
Grading of ascites and suggested treatment
| Grade 1 | Grade 2 | Grade 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium intake restriction | ● | ● | ● |
| Diuretics | ● | ● | |
| Paracentesis | ● | ||
| First-line treatment | Treating underlying disease | ||
| Nutritional treatment and education | |||
| Discontinue NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers | |||
Grade 1 (mild). Ascites is only detectable by an examination such as ultrasound. Grade 2 (moderate). Ascites causing moderate symmetrical distension of the abdomen. Grade 3 (large). Ascites causing marked abdominal distension. '●' indicate recommended treatment.
NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; ACE, angiotensin converting enzyme.