Can your abdomen swell

These symptoms can cause your abdomen to swell. If you experience a swollen abdomen within two hours of ingesting dairy, you might be lactose intolerant.

Lactose intolerance is most common in people of African, Asian, Hispanic and American Indian descent. Ascites is a condition that occurs when fluid builds up inside your abdomen.

This buildup is usually due to problems with your liver, such as cirrhosis. Cirrhosis occurs when your liver becomes extremely scarred. Ascites can cause you discomfort. Your swollen abdomen could be caused by other, less common symptoms. For example, gallstones are hard masses that can build up in your gallbladder. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. Weight gain may also cause swelling of the abdomen, as can a blockage in your intestine.

An ovarian cyst may also lead to a swollen abdomen. Depending upon the cause of your swollen abdomen, you might be able to treat your symptoms easily at home.

If your abdomen is swollen because you ate too much, simply waiting for your food to digest could solve your problem. Eating smaller meals can help prevent this problem in the future.

Also, consider eating more slowly to give your stomach time to process your food. If your abdomen is swollen because of gas, try avoiding foods that are known to cause gas. Some of these foods are beans and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage.

Avoid drinking carbonated drinks and drinking out of a straw. Eating slowly can also help prevent you from swallowing air, which leads to gas. Avoiding dairy products can help relieve abdominal swelling caused by lactose intolerance.

In the case of IBS, decreasing your stress levels and raising your fiber intake have been shown to help relieve symptoms. If you have ascites, bed rest and reducing your sodium intake can help your body get rid of the excess fluid. Diuretics will help your kidneys remove more of the fluid causing the swelling. In rare cases, an infection can develop in your ascitic fluid. Ascites is typically a side effect of another serious issue in the body, such as cirrhosis. People can talk to a doctor for information on their individual treatment options and outlook.

If the stomach regularly swells after a meal, a person should consider eliminating gas-producing foods from their diet. Foods that cause gas include :. There are many potential causes of stomach swelling. Others may indicate an underlying health condition that requires treatment. A person should see their doctor if they experience severe, persistent, or recurrent stomach swelling. A doctor will work to diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatments.

Cirrhosis is a liver condition that causes irreversible scarring on the liver. There are no symptoms in the early stages, but they develop as the…. There are many causes of abdominal bloating, including fluid retention, irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerance, and infection. For most people…. Some foods and beverages, including beans, whole grains, and fizzy beverages, can lead to gas and bloating.

In this article, we look at a range of…. What can cause a swollen stomach? Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. Common causes Serious causes Other causes Diagnosis Other treatment Seeing a doctor Outlook Prevention Summary Most people experience abdominal swelling or bloating at some point, due to various causes.

Common causes and treatment. Serious causes. Other causes. Other treatment. When to see a doctor. Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? There is not much medical treatment available to relieve a swollen abdomen due to IBS and lactose intolerance. Ascites are usually a side effect of another serious problem in the body, such as cirrhosis. Besides treating the offending condition, you may need to have the fluid removed.

The fluid removal procedure, or paracentesis, varies in duration, as it depends on the amount of fluid that needs to be removed. When to visit a Doctor? You probably don't need to see a doctor if you have occasional bloating or gas.

But it can be very serious and even life-threatening with certain conditions that cause bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. That is why it is so important to consult with your doctor if: Over-the-counter remedies or changes in eating habits don't help. Has unexplained weight loss You have no appetite Have chronic or frequent constipation, diarrhea, or vomiting Have persistent bloating, gas, or heartburn Your stools contain blood or mucus There have been major changes in your bowel movements Your symptoms make it difficult for you to function Seek immediate medical attention if: Abdominal pain is severe The diarrhea is severe You have chest pain You have a high fever Your doctor will probably start with a complete medical history and physical exam.

Be sure to mention all of your symptoms and how long you've had them. Home Remedies: Take a walk, as physical activity can cause the intestines to move more regularly, which can help release excess gas and stool. Preparing a cup of hot water with a few sprigs of mint leaves and a pinch of honey and drinking it right away can help improve the bloated feeling you are experiencing.

Ginger is present in most of the foods we eat. It has incredible gas expelling properties and can cure indigestion quite quickly. While it may seem counterproductive, having a glass of warm water with a splash of lemon juice can help you get rid of stomach bloating quite easily.

Apple cider vinegar, as a health supplement, has become more popular these days. Apple cider vinegar can be mixed early in the morning with a glass of warm water and can be eaten once a day. Yogurt has always been considered a refreshing food for hyperacidity.

Contains natural probiotics that replace bad bacteria in the gut and improve digestion. Frequently Asked Questions:. When should I be concerned about swelling?