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Abdomen - swollen

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Definition:

A swollen abdomen is when your belly area is bigger than usual.

See: Abdominal girth

Alternative Names:

Swollen belly; Swelling in the abdomen; Abdominal distention; Distended abdomen

Considerations:

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.

Common Causes:

• Overeating
• Lactose intolerance
• Air swallowing (a nervous habit)
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Partial bowel obstruction

• Review Date: 10/26/2006
• Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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