Abdominal bloating is defined by Medline Plus as visibly swollen stomach that fells full and tight. Occasional abdominal bloating does not usually indicate an underlying condition and may be caused by overeating, constipation or gas. Severe abdominal bloating is more worrisome and may signify chronic conditions. Most of the conditions that cause severe abdominal bloating are not serious and can be easily treated.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is an inability to digest the milk sugar lactose due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase. In normal cases, the small intestine produces lactase, which attaches to lactose and breaks it down into simple sugars that can be absorbed easily by the bloodstream, according to Mayo Clinic. In those with lactose intolerance, lactose moves into the colon without being broken down. This results in severe abdominal bloating, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps and gas after the ingestion of lactose. Lactose intolerance usually develops gradually as a natural part of human development, according to Mayo Clinic. In some cases, it can be a result of surgery or previous illness. There is no cure for lactose intolerance, but avoidance of foods that contain lactose, such as milk and ice cream, can prevent symptoms. If it is not possible to avoid lactose, synthetic enzymes can be taken orally with food to digest lactose.
Celiac Disease
The intestines are lined with finger-like projections called villi, which are important in the body's ability to properly absorb nutrients. In those with celiac disease, the ingestion of gluten, a protein component of wheat, barley and rye, triggers the immune system to attack the intestines, which damages these villi. When villi are damaged, the intestines cannot properly absorb nutrients, which can lead to malnourishment. Symptoms of celiac disease can vary between individuals, but generally include severe abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, gas, constipation, decreased appetite, diarrhea, nausea and unexplained weight loss. As malnourishment occurs, more severe symptoms, such as fatigue, hair loss, joint pain and muscle cramps, may develop, according to Medline Plus. There is no cure for celiac disease, but villi damage can be reversed and symptoms can be prevented by following a gluten-free diet.
Intestinal Obstruction
An intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage in the intestines that prevents the proper passage of intestinal contents. There are two types of intestinal obstructions: mechanical and pseudo-obstruction. A mechanical obstruction occurs when something physically blocks the passageway of the intestines, such as a tumor, hernia or structural abnormality. A pseudo-obstruction occurs when the intestines do not function properly, but there is no physical blockage. Symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include severe abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, cramps, breath odor, constipation, diarrhea and vomiting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. An intestinal obstruction can usually be treated by inserted a nasogastric tube, which relieves pressure and bloating in the abdomen. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the blockage.
