Which signs indicate hypertension in a patient with cirrhosis?

• A. Jaundice and edema
• B. Palpitations and tachycardia
• C. Ascites and portal hypertension
• D. Confusion and agitation

Answer: (C)

Portal hypertension is the key idea: in cirrhosis, scar tissue increases resistance to blood flow through the liver, raising pressure in the portal venous system. That elevated pressure drives fluid into the abdominal cavity, causing ascites, and it often accompanies other signs of portal hypertension such as varices. Ascites is a classic, direct sign of this increased portal pressure. Other options reflect general liver dysfunction (jaundice), nonspecific symptoms (palpitations, tachycardia), or hepatic encephalopathy (confusion, agitation) rather than portal hypertension itself. So ascites alongside the presence of portal hypertension best indicates this condition in a patient with cirrhosis.