Dropsy of the belly is often the result of inflammation of the bowels, or peritoneal inflammation, or it may come on almost imperceptibly from some constitutional disturbance. There is a gradual enlargement of the abdomen, generally commencing in the vicinity of the stomach, and afterwards extending over the entire abdomen. There is difficulty of breathing on taking exercise, sallow complexion, dry skin, and scanty secretion of high-colored urine. Also a general feeling of languor and debility, and stiffness, particularly when attempting to bend the body.