Upper abdominal bloating and chronic abdominal pain occurs more frequently in women, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. These symptoms are often vague and a diagnosis is difficult to establish. However, there are some specific causes of upper abdominal bloating.
Lactose Intolerance
The small intestine contains enzymes that break down the sugars in dairy products. Lactase deficiency is the most common form of carbohydrate intolerance, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Undigested sugars cause an osmotic load within the intestines, attracting water and electrolytes into the intestines and causing watery diarrhea. Bacterial fermentation within the large intestine causes increased gas, resulting in excessive flatus, upper abdominal bloating and abdominal pain. Treatment of lactose intolerance includes either dietary restriction and/or ingestion of synthetic lactase supplements.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include upper abdominal cramping and bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea or constipation. In 50 percent of patients with IBS, symptoms start prior to age 35, twice as many women as men have IBS and many have a family history of IBS, notes MayoClinic.com. Treatment includes fiber supplements, antidiarrheal medications and eliminating gas-producing foods. Occasionally, patients may need stronger medicines, such as anticholinergics to relieve bowel spasms, and antidepressants that not only relieve depression but also act on the nerves that control the intestines.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease or sprue, is a disease of the lining of the small intestine. Destruction of the lining inhibits the ability to digest gluten which is found in wheat, barley and rye. The cause of the disease is unknown, though there seems to be a genetic component. Patients with Celiac disease may become malnourished despite eating a healthy diet, according to MedlinePlus. It can develop at any point in life. Symptoms include upper abdominal pain and bloating, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, lactose intolerance, nausea and vomiting, foul-smelling stools and unexplained weight loss. Treatment consists of eating a gluten-free diet.
