QUESTION: A fellow worker is going through a terrible illness, and most disturbing of all is his need to have fluid removed from his belly at regular intervals.
It sounds horrible, but many of his fellow workers are afraid they may catch the same disease.
Can you help us by explaining just what is going on?
ANSWER: The condition your co-worker is suffering from is known as "ascites" (from a Latin word meaning "a bag").
Liquid forms in the closed abdominal cavity and, since there is no way of it getting out, must be removed.
Usually this condition occurs when there is a serious, chronic liver condition.
The commonest cause is cirrhosis, which as you may know, can result from severe alcoholism.
There are other possible causes, including heart failure, kidney disease, and some forms of cancer.
The manner in which the liquid is formed is pretty complex and still not completely understood by scientists.
The fact that is most important to you and the other people in your office is that you can't catch the condition from your friend.
I am also sure, that were there any danger to you or your fellow employees, you friend's physician would have notified family, friends and place of employment.
I believe I can confidently reassure you, so that you may continue to be a support to someone who could use a bit of help in his hour of need with no fear for yourself.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
