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You are here: Home > Health A to Z > Abdominal bloating

Health A to Z


Abdominal bloating

Definition
Common Causes
Alternative Names


Abdominal ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound

 Definition  

Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the abdomen feels full and tight. It is usually caused by gas in the bowel.

 Alternative Names  

Bloating

 Common Causes  

  • Overeating
  • Lactose intolerance and other food intolerances
  • Air swallowing (a nervous habit)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Partial bowel obstruction
  • Constipation
  • Small bowel bacterial overgrowth
Important but uncommon causes of abdominal bloating include ascites and tumors, such as those arising from ovarian cancer.

Review date: 10/18/2006

Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA.Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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