Distended Stomach

Distention of the stomach is usually described as an increase in stomach girth. It generally results from an increase in intra abdominal pressure, that pushes the abdominal wall and causes the stomach to distend. There can be varied reasons for abdominal distension. Such distension is often accompanied by bloating, which is the feeling that we get due to abdominal distension. Distended stomach, on the other hand, refers to actual increase in the size of the abdomen. Sometimes, stomach distension can be caused minor problems like intestinal gas, while at other time, it can take place due serious conditions like fluid accumulation and enlargement of the organs in the abdominal region.

Distention of the Stomach

Causes and Symptoms

As has been mentioned already, distended stomach and bloating is generally caused by intestinal gas. Intestinal gas can be a result of swallowing air through the mouth, and incomplete digestion of certain foods. Some people seem to face this problem after eating, which can be a result of overeating, indigestion and intolerance to certain foods. Many times, stomach distention can also be caused by weight gain or obesity. Women on the other hand, can get this condition before or during menstruation.

But, it can also be a symptom of certain major health conditions, especially if such distention lasts for a considerable length of time.

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Intolerance to certain foods
• Food allergies
• Bowel obstruction
• Constipation
• Intestinal parasites
• Diverticulitis
• Amebiasis
• Celiac disease
• Colitis
• Crohn's disease
• Ovarian cyst
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Ovarian cancer
• Tumor in the abdomen
• Uterine fibroids
• Peritonitis
• Ascites or accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity

Fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity can take place due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure and peritoneal carcinomatosis. Sometimes, gas, bloating, flatulence and abdominal pain can accompany this condition. However, occasionally, it can also be accompanied by diarrhea or constipation, vomiting, weight loss and rectal bleeding. If it is accompanied by gas, bloating and flatulence, then it is caused by intestinal gas and ingestion.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Physicians often look for symptoms, and carry out a detailed physical examinations to find out, whether stomach distension is the result of gas and indigestion or some other medical conditions. If stomach distension is intermittent, then it is generally attributed to an increase in intestinal gas. However, continuous distension of the stomach for a considerable period of time, can be an indicator of major health problems. Such a condition would require some comprehensive diagnostic tests like, X-ray of the stomach and intestine, MRI, CT scan and ultrasound of the abdominal region and certain specific tests to look for malabsorption and food intolerance.

The treatment can be governed by the underlying causes. A case of intestinal gas and indigestion can be addressed with the help of a few lifestyle and dietary modifications. Eating fresh fruit, vegetables and a fiber rich diet can alleviate problems of the digestive tract. Avoiding excessive consumption of processed foods, as well as fatty and greasy foods can also help to alleviate stomach distension and bloating. Regular exercising is another way to maintain your digestive health, and prevent indigestion and intestinal gas. However, if it is caused by conditions other than intestinal gas, then different treatment approaches would be required, which would be solely determined by the underlying causes.

If stomach distension is intermittent, then you can get relief with regular exercising and following a balanced diet regimen. Drinking water can also be immensely helpful for relieving gas, bloating and flatulence. But, if your stomach is distended for a long time, and is also accompanied by constipation, diarrhea, vomiting and rectal bleeding, then consider visiting your physician. Such a condition can be a symptom of a disease of more serious nature, and hence, should be properly evaluated and treated on time.