Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the individual feels as if the abdomen is full and tight. The abdomen may also look distended or swollen. Bloating occurs when the individual is not able to pass gas by belching or flatulence. This causes gas to buildup in the intestines, and the individual feels bloated. The condition is often accompanied by abdominal pain. The pain can either be mild and dull, or it can be sharp and severe. Medline Plus lists several conditions that can result in abdominal bloating.
Constipation
Medline Plus reports that constipation can be a cause of abdominal bloating. Constipation is a condition in which the bowel movements of the individual become infrequent. The individual may also pass hard or dry stools. Due to a lack of bowel movements, the individual may have a buildup of gas in the intestines, which can make the individual feel bloated.
Gastroesophageal Reflux
Medline Plus says that gastroesophageal reflux is another cause of abdominal bloating, a condition is commonly known as acid reflux. The stomach acid in the individual in such a case backs up into the esophagus or the food pipe.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is another condition that can cause abdominal bloating, according to Medline Plus. This is a disorder of the lower intestinal tract in which the individual feels pain in the abdomen and has abnormal bowel movements. The condition gets worse when the individual goes through emotional stress.
Lactose Intolerance
Medline Plus reports that lactose intolerance can also cause abdominal bloating. Lactose is a type of sugar present in milk and other dairy products. An inability to digest lactose is called lactose intolerance. The condition can cause excessive build up of gas and abdominal bloating. Certain other foods may also cause intolerance in an individual leading to digestive problems and abdominal bloating.
Other Causes
Medline Plus lists that individuals who have the nervous habit of air swallowing can also suffer from abdominal bloating. Overeating is another cause of this feeling of fullness. Small bowel bacterial overgrowth and weight gain are also causes of abdominal bloating. Certain diabetes medication and medical conditions can also make the individual feel bloated. These medical conditions include ovarian cancer, celiac disease and tumors.
