Is abdominal distension serious?
A distended abdomen is often a temporary problem linked to digestion, but it can be uncomfortable, and it can sometimes indicate a serious condition. There's no need to suffer in silence. If you have a digestive problem, your healthcare provider can help you narrow down causes and strategies for managing it at home.
What does a distended abdomen indicate?
Abdominal swelling, or distention, is more often caused by overeating than by a serious illness. This problem also can be caused by: Air swallowing (a nervous habit) Buildup of fluid in the abdomen (this can be a sign of a serious medical problem)
When should I be worried about abdominal swelling?
Call your doctor if your abdomen is getting bigger, or if you have other symptoms that accompany the swelling, such as fever or nausea. Seek medical care if you have extreme diarrhea or blood in your stool. If you find that you're unable to eat or drink for more than eight hours, tell your doctor.
Is abdominal distension painful?
A bloated stomach is first and foremost a feeling of tightness, pressure or fullness in your belly. It may or may not be accompanied by a visibly distended (swollen) abdomen. The feeling can range from mildly uncomfortable to intensely painful.
Can liver problems cause a distended stomach?
Abdominal Swelling A swollen abdomen can point to a condition called ascites, in which liver malfunction leads to an imbalance of proteins and other compounds, and fluid builds up in the tissues. The main symptom, potbelly, often signals cirrhosis.
What diseases cause a distended stomach?
The list of organic disorders that can cause bloating and distension also includes celiac disease, pancreatic insufficiency, prior gastroesophageal surgery (such as fundoplication or bariatric procedures), gastric outlet obstruction, gastroparesis, ascites, gastrointestinal or gynecologic malignancy, hypothyroidism, ...
Why is my stomach so bloated and my back hurts?
Most of the time, gas is no more than a minor annoyance. However, gas occasionally produces intense pain that makes the entire abdomen feel full and tender. This pain can radiate to the back, causing back pain and bloating. Minor gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach viruses, may also cause intense gas pain.
What causes swelling in the abdomen?
A swollen abdomen is often caused by bloating from conditions like IBS, heartburn, constipation, and menstrual cramps. But may also be a sign of fluid buildup in the abdomen, liver disease, or an intestinal blockage.
Why is my lower belly so big?
There are many reasons why people gain belly fat, including poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress. Improving nutrition, increasing activity, and making other lifestyle changes can all help. Belly fat refers to fat around the abdomen.
Is abdominal distension the same as bloating?
Bloating refers to the sensation of abdominal (tummy) swelling, sometimes described as the feeling of an inflated balloon in the belly. By contrast, abdominal distention refers to an actual increase in measured abdominal size.
How do you fix a distended stomach?
Beat The BloatEat slowly, and consume smaller, more frequent meals.Chew your foods well.Drink beverages at room temperature.Have your dentures checked for a good fit.Increase physical activity during the day.Sit up straight after eating.Take a stroll after eating.
How do you know if bloating is serious?
Five: Signs your bloating is something more seriousWeight loss. Weight loss alongside continually bloating should be explored by your GP, especially if the weight loss was not part of a change of diet/lifestyle.Changes in bathroom habits. ... Fatigue. ... Appetite changes. ... Continual bloating.