Causes of Ascites
Ascites results from high pressure in the blood vessels of the liver (portal hypertension) and low levels of a protein called albumin. Diseases that can cause severe liver damage can lead to ascites. These include long-term hepatitis C or B infection and alcohol abuse over many years. People with certain cancers in the abdomen may develop ascites. These include cancer of the appendix, colon, ovaries, uterus, pancreas, and liver. Commonly seen causes of ascites are listed as follows:

-- The most common cause of ascites remains liver disease or cirrhosis. Nearly eighty percent of all reported cases of ascites can be traced back to advanced
liver damage. It is believed that the increase in pressure in the liver blood flow along with a decrease in the albumin content in the blood may be responsible for the development of abdominal ascites.

-- Certain cancers such as colon cancer, stomach cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer and lymphoma can lead to malignant ascites.

-- Chronic pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas caused by alcohol abuse can result in pancreatic ascites

-- Salt and water retention can also contribute to the severity of ascites symptoms.

-- Obstruction of the portal vessel without cirrhosis such as tumors and blood clot formation

-- Kidney failure / kidney damage

-- Congestive heart failure