Ascites and Low Sodium Diet in Cirrhosis Patients

An alcoholic patient has a low serum albumin, low hemoglobin, high ammonia, abnormal liver function tests & ascites. Why is he on a 500 mg sodium diet?a. secondary renal failure b. hypoaldosterosimc. hypoalbuminemiad. hyperammonemia

c. hypoalbuminemia

The alcoholic patient is likely experiencing cirrhosis of the liver, which explains the low serum albumin, abnormal liver function tests, and ascites. The high ammonia levels may also be attributed to liver damage and dysfunction.

The reason the patient is on a 500 mg sodium diet is likely due to the presence of ascites. Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity and can result in uncomfortable swelling and pressure. A low sodium diet helps to decrease fluid retention and minimize symptoms of ascites.

Option A: Secondary renal failure is unlikely to cause ascites and does not explain the patient’s other symptoms.

Option B: Hypoaldosteronism refers to a deficiency of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates sodium and potassium levels in the body. While it may contribute to low serum sodium levels, it does not directly relate to ascites or the patient’s other symptoms.

Option C: Hypoalbuminemia, or low serum albumin, can contribute to the development of ascites, but it is not the primary reason for the patient’s dietary restrictions.

Option D: Hyperammonemia, or high ammonia levels in the blood, may be present due to liver dysfunction, but this would not be the sole reason for a low sodium diet.

In summary, the patient’s cirrhosis and ascites are the primary reasons for the low sodium diet, while the other symptoms are likely secondary to the liver dysfunction.

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