Stomach Bloating or Abdominal Distension

Stomach Bloating or Abdominal Distension.

Bloating is distention of the abdomen from excess gas in the digestive tract. Digestion is a series of chemical reactions that break down food. As a result of the digestive process, waste products including gases are produced. Under normal circumstances the small volumes of gases that are produced pass our of the intestine. This is known as flatulence. If the gas production is excessive or when gases are produced at higher temperatures and pressures distension occurs. 

Causes Of Digestive Disorders

The most common cause of stomach bloating is irregular digestive process leading to excessive gas formation. Other causes are : 

• Salt or processed foods in the diet - even a small amount of excess sodium can cause bloating. 
  Intestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  Carbonated drinks.
  Reduced water intake : drinking more water flushes out the sodium that reduces bloating.
  Lactose intolerance .
  Food allergies.
  Any disease that causes intestinal inflammation or obstruction, such as Crohn's Disease or Colon cancer, may also cause abdominal bloating.
  People with previous operations leading to formation of adhesions (scar tissue), or internal hernias may experience bloating or pain. 
  Eating a lot of fatty food can delay stomach emptying and cause bloating and discomfort. 
  Excess alcohol. 

Consumption of certain foods such as : 

• o Beans 
  o Vegetables, such as cabbage and onions
  o Fruits, such as pears, apples and peaches.
  o Whole grains, such as whole wheat and bran.
  o Soft drinks and fruit drinks
  o Milk and milk products, such as cheese and ice cream
  o Foods containing sorbitol, such as diabetic foods and sugar-free candies and gums.

A patient's medical history is important in the evaluation of bloating or distention. If the bloating / distention is continuous rather that intermittent, then enlargement of abdominal organs, abdominal fluid, tumours, or obesity are probable causes. If the bloating/distention is associated with increased flatulence, then bacteria and excessive gas production are likely factors. If a diet history reveals the consumption of large amounts of milk or dairy products ( lactose), sorbitol or fructose, then the maldigestion and malabsorption of these sugars may be the cause of the distention.

Precautions 

To reduce excessive gas formation : 

• Avoid soft drinks and soups with lots of sodium
  Avoid excessive consumption of dairy products. 
  Avoid too-hot or too-cold foods. Plenty of air is swallowed with foods that are either too-hot or too-cold.
  Avoid chewing gums. Plenty of air is swallowed with chewing gums.
  Skip the stimulants. Coffee, tea and chocolate can all overexcite the digestive tract. 
  Reduce fat consumption. 
  Fat is difficult to digest and may stimulate intestinal spasms leading to bloating. 
  Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. 
  Drink at least two litres of water every day. 
  Choose fresh, natural foods over fast, commercial or packaged foods. 
  Do regular exercise as it helps in the release of hormones that encourage bowel activity.
  Get a diagnosis. Bloating can be a sign of serious digestive diseases. If none of the self-help remedies provides help, consult your doctor. 

Stomach Bloating or Abdominal Distension.
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Endoscopic procedures
Constipation
Diagnosis and Treatment of Constipation
Medications and Complications
Indigestion