Abdominal bloating is defined as an increase in size of the abdomen due to swelling. In addition to a visible swelling, called distention, those who are bloated may also experience feelings of fullness and tightness in the abdominal area. Minor bloating often occurs on a regular basis as a result of increased gas in the digestive tract. Excessive bloating can cause a great deal of discomfort and may indicate an underlying digestive disorder or food intolerance.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract that is characterized by its most frequently occurring symptoms--excessive bloating, cramping, abdominal pain and alternating periods of constipation and diarrhea. According to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse, irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common digestive disorders, affecting approximately one in five adults in America. The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome has not yet been discovered and, because of this, the condition can be difficult to treat. Treatment is personalized for each individual, but general treatment options include medications, diet changes, increased exercise and avoidance of symptom triggers.
Lactose Intolerance
The small intestine is responsible for producing the enzyme lactase, which is vital in the proper digestion of the milk sugar lactose. Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the small intestine does not produce enough lactase. MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, notes that lactose intolerance is a very common condition and approximately 30 percent of adults experience some degree of lactose intolerance by the age of 20. Symptoms of lactose intolerance are brought on by the consumption of foods that contain lactose, such as milk, ice cream, yogurt and cheese. Common symptoms include excessive abdominal bloating, cramps, diarrhea, floating stools, gas, malnutrition, nausea and weight loss. A diet free of lactose can prevent symptoms; however, avoiding milk products can lead to deficiencies of calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin and protein. MedlinePlus recommends adding other sources of these vitamins or taking supplements.
Celiac Disease
The small intestine is lined with small, hair-like substances called villi. The purpose of villi is to absorb the nutrients from food and deposit them into the bloodstream. Celiac disease is a food intolerance to the protein gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye, that causes damage to the villi in the small intestine. When gluten is ingested, it damages the villi, resulting in improper absorption of nutrients. This results in vitamin deficiencies that can cause a number of symptoms. The most common symptoms of celiac disease include excessive bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea, according to MayoClinic.com. Other possible symptoms of celiac disease include anemia, upset stomach, joint pain, muscle cramps, skin rash and tingling in the hands and feet. Celiac disease has no cure, but avoiding gluten can help prevent damage to the villi and the resulting symptoms.
