I am suffering from hepatomegaly - #9470

You're dealing with a lot, both physically and mentally, and that anxiety is totally understandable—especially when a loved one like your Nani had a serious condition like ascites. But it's important to focus on facts, not fears. Your ultrasound clearly shows hepatomegaly (enlarged liver) and gas-filled bowel loops, but no ascites. Ascites would be very clearly visible on USG as fluid buildup in the abdomen, and if it was there, it would’ve been mentioned. Constant gas and bloating from the bowel loops could be what's making you feel "full" or uncomfortable in the belly, mimicking what your mind fears. What you're experiencing is health anxiety, where the brain fixates on “what ifs” even when tests say otherwise. It’s common when there’s a family history of serious illness. Try to trust your reports and doctors—your liver might be mildly enlarged due to fatty liver, infections, or lifestyle-related causes, but it’s very manageable, especially at your age. Start with a low-fat diet, minimal alcohol (if any), regular exercise, and get liver function tests if not already done. And don’t hesitate to talk to a therapist—it really helps when your mind keeps looping into fear. You will be okay—let’s take this one step at a time.

Dear Sanjana, I understand your worries, especially given your family history, but it’s important to focus on the facts from your ultrasound (USG) results. The report shows hepatomegaly (enlarged liver) with gas-filled bowel loops, but there is no mention of ascites. If ascites were present, it would have been clearly noted in the scan. Hepatomegaly can have various causes, including fatty liver, infections, metabolic conditions, or liver congestion. Managing it depends on the underlying cause. Some general steps to take: 1. Follow a Liver-Friendly Diet – Reduce fatty, fried, and processed foods and increase fiber-rich foods like vegetables and whole grains. 2. Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to support liver function. 3. Avoid Alcohol & Unnecessary Medications – Certain medications and alcohol can strain the liver, so it’s best to avoid them unless prescribed. 4. Regular Exercise – Moderate activity can help improve liver health, especially if fatty liver is a concern. 5. Routine Check-Ups – If you’re still worried about ascites, you can monitor for symptoms like sudden abdominal swelling, difficulty breathing, or leg swelling. However, given your normal USG, there is no medical reason to suspect ascites right now. Your mind’s overthinking is understandable, but try to trust the test results and medical guidance. If anxiety is overwhelming, deep breathing exercises or speaking to a doctor about your concerns might help. You can also consider repeating an ultrasound after a few months if symptoms persist for reassurance.