Sounds like some kind of ascites (fluid build-up due to varying causes). I have read lots of people drain the abdomen with a needle and syringe to draw the fluid out but have never done it. There are threads about it with more details about the supplies/needle insertion if you search for "ascites" on this site. I have read ascites is usually chronic. From what I understand, you do need to drain the fluids or it is fatal. The fluids put pressure on the internal organs, including lungs causing difficulty breathing, and the skin may rupture. I have not dealt with this problem personally, and this is just a guess. Good luck.
