Ascites

I am almost 50, female and have mitral stenosis (1.6mva) and aortic regurgitation (3+).  At the end of each day my stomach is swollen as if I'm 5 months pregnant.  I am not over weight, take hyzaar 100/25.  Do ascites come and go or is the only way to get rid of them strong diurectics or draining them?  If I drink a lot of fluids my legs swell also. My resting HR is 45-55 and sometimes causes lightheadedness.  Could that be a contributing factor?
Thank you

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear papaley,
Ascities (collection of fluid in the abdomen) may be due to cardiac problems but more commonly is due to liver disease.  Have you been checked for this?  If not talk to your doctor about getting some liver studies.  If he has determined that there is no other cause and this is due to your heart then the best treatment is with medications.  You may need an increased dosage of medication or additional meds to get the problem under control.  Also limiting your fluid and salt intake will help.