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Abdomen - swollen - Treatment

Alternative Names

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

Home Care:

A swollen abdomen that results from eating a heavy meal will go away when the food is digested. Eating in moderation will help prevent swelling.

For a swollen abdomen 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 swollen abdomen 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 swollen abdomen resulting from other causes, follow prescribed therapy to treat the underlying cause.

Call your health care provider if:

Call your health care provider if:

  • The abdominal swelling is getting worse and does not go away
  • The swelling occurs with other unexplained symptoms
  • Your abdomen is tender to the touch

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

Your health care provider perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history, such as:

  • Time pattern
    • When did the abdominal swelling begin?
    • Does it occur after meals or after eating specific foods?
  • What other symptoms occur at the same time? For example, have you had:
Tests that may be done include:
  • Reviewed last on: 11/16/2008
  • Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Proctor DD. Approach to the patient with gastrointestinal disease. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 134.

Postier RG, Squires RA. Acute abdomen. In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 45.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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