What does a distended abdomen indicate?

What does a distended abdomen indicate?

What does a distended abdomen indicate?

A distended abdomen is abnormally swollen outward. You can see and measure the difference, and sometimes you can feel it. A distended abdomen can be due to bloating from gas, or it can be due to accumulated fluid, tissue, or digestive contents.

Can constipation cause abdominal distension?

Fecal impaction, which is an increase in colonic content due to constipation, can cause colon distension. In addition, increased amount of colonic content further increases the rate of fermentation and gas production.

What is incomplete distention of the stomach?

Abdominal distension occurs when substances, such as air (gas) or fluid, accumulate in the abdomen causing its expansion. It is typically a symptom of an underlying disease or dysfunction in the body, rather than an illness in its own right. People suffering from this condition often describe it as “feeling bloated”.

What causes a big hard stomach?

When your stomach swells and feels hard, the explanation might be as simple as overeating or drinking carbonated drinks, which is easy to remedy. Other causes may be more serious, such as an inflammatory bowel disease. Sometimes the accumulated gas from drinking a soda too quickly can result in a hard stomach.

Why does my upper stomach bulge out?

A person with an abdominal lump may notice an area of swelling or a bulge that protrudes from the abdominal area. Possible causes include hernias, lipomas, hematomas, undescended testicles, and tumors. Not all abdominal lumps require treatment, but some may need surgery.

Is abdominal distension painful?

Both bloating and distension cause discomfort, and sometimes pain, and have a negative impact on the quality of life for some individuals. The symptoms may be linked with other gas related complaints, such as burping or belching (eructation), swallowing air (aerophagia), and passing intestinal gas (flatulence).

Does distended stomach go away?

Most stomach bloating will resolve on its own. However, you should see a doctor if it does not go away or if you notice any of the following symptoms: Blood in your stool. Intense or persistent abdominal pain.

Why is my stomach big and hard?