Epistemis

Abdominal distension

Specialty: Gastrointestinal.

  • abdominal swelling
  • swollen belly
  • meteorism

Why it occurs

  • Gases/aerophagy
  • Constipation
  • Ascites
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Irritable bowel syndrome

Initial workup

Exploration; abdominal x-ray if obstruction is suspected; assess ascites.

red flags

Distension with pain, vomiting and absence of stools/gas → suspicion of obstruction.

Standard management

  • Dietary measures — reduce gas, adjusted fiber
  • Prokinetics/laxatives — according to cause

Educational guidance for study. It is NOT a prescription recommendation. The actual choice depends on the cause, the patient, and current guidelines.

PreviousDyschezia
Area
Gastrointestinal
Listed causes
5
Treatment options
2
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