Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
Alternative Names
Swollen belly; Swelling in the abdomen; Abdominal distention; Distended abdomenDefinition Return to top
A swollen abdomen is when your belly area is bigger than usual.
See: Abdominal girth
Considerations Return to top
Abdominal distention is a common condition, which usually results from over-eating, rather than from a serious illness. Simple weight gain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), pregnancy, or the unconscious swallowing of air can also cause distention.
Abdominal distention is often caused by intestinal gas. This may result from eating fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables. Legumes such as beans are common sources of intestinal gas. People who are lactose intolerant cannot properly digest dairy foods, and eating such foods may cause distention.
Abdominal distention may also occasionally result from the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, which can be a sign of serious medical problems. There are usually other symptoms in this case.
Causes Return to top
Home Care Return to top
Distention resulting from a heavy meal will go away when the food is digested. Eating in moderation will help prevent swelling.
For distention caused by swallowing air, awareness often leads to self-control. Eat slowly, avoid carbonated beverages, avoid chewing gum or sucking on candies, avoid drinking through a straw, or sipping the surface of a hot beverage.
For distention caused by malabsorption, try changing diets and reducing milk consumption. Consult your doctor.
For irritable bowel syndrome, increase dietary fiber, decrease emotional stress, and consult your doctor.
For distention resulting from other causes, follow prescribed therapy to treat the underlying cause.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Reasons to call your health care provider include:
What to Expect at Your Office Visit Return to top
Your health care provider will obtain a medical history and perform a detailed examination.
Medical history questions documenting swollen abdomen in detail may include the following:
Home | Health Topics | Drugs & Supplements | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Disclaimers | Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Quality Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |