Abdominal Swelling - What Could It Be

What is Abdominal Swelling?

The abdomen is the area between chest and groin. It contains many different organs such as the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, etc. Abdominal swelling refers to any unusual enlargement, bloating, or distension in this area.

Abdominal swelling occurs as a common symptom with many diseases, some mild and some rather severe. Depending on the source, abdominal swelling may occur momentarily or for longer episodes. It may be a generalized swelling that occurs throughout the abdomen, or it may be restricted to a particular area usually referred to as an ‘abdominal mass’. 

Prolonged and severe abdominal bloating may interfere with the normal processes of the body such as breathing and digestion. It may lead to the development of certain life-threatening symptoms as well, such as jaundice and dizziness. 

Causes of Abdominal Swelling

Physiological abdominal swelling is caused by normal phenomena like over eating, drinking too much liquid, etc. Whereas pathological abdominal swelling is a symptom of an abnormal condition like ascites, inflammatory bowel syndrome, etc.

Abdominal swelling may occur due to various reasons, ranging from infections to overeating and even missed menses. Listed below are the conditions that are known to cause abdominal swelling as a symptom.

Most Common Causes

Overeating and gas are two most common causes of abdominal swelling. Swallowing air, overeating, and eating high-fibre foods very often may lead to the accumulation of gas in digestive system which results in bulging of abdomen outward. This causes abdominal swelling.

Common Medical Causes

Causes that might indicate a medical condition include cancer, infections, inflammation, trauma or abdominal obstruction. Broadly, medical causes that may cause abdominal swelling can be categorized as gastrointestinal, digestive, or related to other bodily systems (nervous, endocrine, urinary, and reproductive).    

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a condition that is usually left undiagnosed. This is because IBS presents with vague symptoms such as diarrhea alternating constipation (few episodes of diarrhea followed by constipation), abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, abdominal fullness, bloating, and gas. Abdominal swelling is also seen in most of the cases when gas exceeds its certain limit.

What causes IBS is still unclear. However, a genetic predisposition and problems with the immune system may be underlying causes. Doctors declare these symptoms as IBS when no other cause is found.

Although there is no permanent cure for IBS, medication may help relieve some of the distressing symptoms and prevent them from becoming worse or coming back.

Lactose Intolerance

This is a condition in which the body cannot digest or ‘tolerate’ lactose – a carbohydrate present in dairy products. This is due to the lack or inability of the enzyme lactase to breakdown lactose in the body.

Besides that, abdominal bloating and swelling in abdominal due accumulation of gas also occur two hours after eating dairy products. 

People suffering from this condition are advised not to eat dairy products. They may eat alternatives or fermented forms, such as yogurt instead of milk.

See Also: Twenty-Three Secrets For Dealing With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Ascites

Ascites is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the abdomen. As the amount of fluid increases, abdominal swelling becomes prominent and discomfort becomes evident. The condition may become life-threatening in severe cases.

Causes of ascites mainly include liver problems such as cirrhosis, in which liver scarring takes place. Other causes are heart failure, kidney problems, appendicitis, or cancer. Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite and heartburn. The abdominal swelling in this condition is most prominent.  

Treatment for ascites involves diuretics, which relieve the pressure around the abdomen and liver. Paracentesis is another option, in which a needle is inserted into the abdominal cavity to drain the accumulated fluid. Surgery may be required if no other option is suitable.

Abdominal Swelling – Some Other Possibilities

There are lots of conditions that can cause your belly to bulge out. Digestive tract is a complex system; several muscles and enzymes play role in the proper functioning of this system.

Abdominal swelling is a common symptom and may occur with or without pain. Listed below are some conditions that may also facilitate outward protrusion of the abdomen.

Indigestion

Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, is usually associated with conditions such as gastrointestinal reflux disease, IBS, ulcers or gallbladder disease. Indigestion causes feelings of burning or heaviness in the upper part of the stomach during or after a meal.

Symptoms associated with dyspepsia include abdominal pain, nausea and belching. Shivering and vomiting may also occur. Abdominal swelling is seen in severe cases.

Treatment is usually based on dietary modifications and lifestyle changes. It is advised not to consume spicy foods and drink sufficient amounts of water. Smoking and alcohol should also be stopped for a certain period of time as it may worsen the symptoms.

Overeating

This is one of the physiological causes of abdominal swelling. Overeating results in the stomach producing more acids to digest the extra food consumed, which causes acid reflex and consequent heartburn.

Heartburn, chest pain, and numbness are common symptoms. Other more distressing symptoms such as violent coughing and abdominal discomfort appear when the amount of acid increases.

A controlled diet and change in eating habits is advised as treatment. Some medications may be prescribed according to the condition.

Intestinal Obstruction

Intestinal obstruction is a condition in which there is a complete or partial blockage of the small or large intestine (colon). This restricts the movement of digested food and fluids along the intestines. If not treated in time, the affected part of the intestine may die and may have to be surgically removed.

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramping, and loss of appetite.

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Common options are air enemas, stunts and meshes. Surgery is indicated in severe cases.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Infections

Commonly known as food poisoning, GI infections are caused by bacterial, viral or amoebic invasions into the digestive system. This may be caused by unhygienic conditions, undercooked meat, improper preservation of food, and in some cases, exposure of food to toxins.

Intestinal inflammation, nausea, vomiting, cramping, fever, and diarrhea are the symptoms that are usually experienced. Treatment involves keeping yourself hydrated and maintaining the osmotic balance of the body. In case of infection, antibiotics may be administered.

See Also: How to Treat Food Poisoning at Home

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation or swelling of the inner lining of the appendix, which may spread to other parts of the intestine. Complications may develop if the appendix ruptures or an abscess develops. This condition usually does not present with abdominal swelling, however, in some cases abdominal swelling may occur.

Causes include infection, blockage of the opening of the cecum, changes in lymphatic tissue that lines the appendix or cancer. Nausea, vomiting, and fever are common symptoms. Treatment generally involves surgery to remove the appendix known as an appendectomy.

Rare Causes

There are some other disorders that rarely present as abdominal swelling. These include:

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Abdominal TB