Choice A reason:

Increased urine output and dehydration are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites involves fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, not fluid loss through the urinary system.

Choice B reason:

Weight loss and decreased abdominal girth are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites typically leads to increased abdominal girth and swelling.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Visible abdominal swelling and distention are early signs of ascites progression. As fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity, the abdomen may become visibly swollen and distended.

Choice D reason:

Reduced ankle edema and lower extremity swelling are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites primarily affects the abdominal cavity, not the extremities.