Swollen Abdomen

Also known as: distended abdomen, abdominal distention, distended stomach, bloated abdomen, bloated stomach

What is a swollen abdomen?

When the area of the body around the stomach is bloated or larger than it usually is, this is the sign of a swollen abdomen (or abdominal distenstion). Causes can range from overeating to more serious medical conditions.

What might cause swollen abdomen?

If the abdomen is swollen after a large meal, it can be from overeating. Other medical causes may include:

Intestinal gas from eating high-fiber foods
Swallowing air
Lactose intolerance
Irritable bowel syndrome
Weight gain
Pregnancy
Bowel blockage
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Fluid buildup
Ovarian cyst
Uterine fibroids
Abnormal growth of cells
Celiac disease
Infections

How can it be treated?

For some cases of swollen abdomen, the following approaches can help:

Avoid carbonated beverages
Avoid foods known to cause gas like beans and cauliflower
Don’t chew gum (causes you to swallow extra air)
Don’t use drinking straws
Steer clear of lactose containing dairy products
Eat more slowly

When should you seek medical attention?

If a swollen abdomen does not appear to be related to your diet, is growing worse or not improving, is tender or is accompanied by a high fever, diarrhea or bloody stools, talk to your health care provider.

Reviewed by: Shifra Koyfman, MD

This page was last updated on: August 26, 2020 12:53 PM

Pediatric Gastroenterology

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