A swollen belly is a very common problem, especially for people who suffer from gas and constipation.
A swollen belly or abdominal distension is a very common problem, especially among women, in which there is an increase in abdominal volume associated with great discomfort. This swelling, most of the time, is associated with the excessive presence of intestinal gas and/or constipation.
However, a swollen belly can also be a sign of pregnancy, PMS, poor digestion, gastritis or irritable bowel. In fact, it is important to highlight that, when swelling is associated with symptoms such as, for example, anal bleeding, hemorrhoids or yellow skin, it is important to see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible to start the best treatment.
Furthermore, regardless of the cause that is causing the swollen belly, to alleviate and prevent this discomfort from happening, there are some strategies and tips. Therefore, thinking of helping you, we have listed some information that will help to eliminate this problem, continue here and check it out.
Main causes of bloated belly
1. Excess gas
The most common cause of a bloated belly is the excessive presence of intestinal gas. Among the actions that stimulate the formation of gases is, for example, the consumption of very spicy foods and excessive seasonings.
To prevent this from happening, some tips are to eat slowly, drink fennel tea and use medications such as Luftal.
2. Constipation
Constipation, in most cases, is related to low fiber consumption and little water intake, mainly affecting people who are more sedentary or bedridden, causing a swollen belly.
Additionally, constipation can cause other symptoms such as abdominal discomfort. To avoid this problem, try to consume foods rich in fiber, good examples are fruits, oats, prunes and vegetables.
3. Excess weight
Many times, abdominal swelling can actually be the accumulation of fat in the region. Therefore, to prevent this from happening, it is important to maintain a healthy eating routine and exercise daily.
4. PMS / Menstruation
Among the symptoms of PMS, one of the most common is a swollen belly. This happens due to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal area at this stage, which tends to disappear naturally after menstruation.
To reduce this symptom during PMS, one tip is to consume diuretic teas, such as green tea or horsetail tea.
5. Pregnancy
If belly swelling is associated with swollen breasts and late menstruation, it could be a sign of pregnancy. Therefore, pay attention to the shape of your abdomen, in fact, pregnant tummies tend to be more prominent below the navel.
6. Ascites
Ascites, or water belly, is a condition where there is an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal region. This condition occurs mainly due to liver problems, such as liver cirrhosis, for example.
Treatment for this problem should be recommended by a gastroenterologist.
7. Intestinal obstruction
Intestinal obstruction happens when feces are prevented from passing through the intestine. Symptoms of this problem include, for example, difficulty passing or eliminating gas, bloating, nausea or abdominal pain.
8. Swollen belly due to lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a natural process in the body that occurs when the body has difficulty digesting lactose, which, in fact, is the sugar found in most milk-based products.
Symptoms of intolerance include diarrhea, cramps and abdominal bloating after consuming milk or other dairy products.
9. Celiac disease
Celiac disease is caused by increased gas production and can cause severe cramps and a bloated belly. This problem has an immunological origin and occurs when there is an inflammatory reaction in the small intestine every time it is exposed to foods containing gluten.
10. Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder, that is, when there is a problem with the function of the intestine, but without changes in its structure. This disorder, in addition to abdominal bloating, can cause episodes of constipation alternating with diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, increased gas production, malaise, tiredness and nausea.
For adequate treatment, seek help from a doctor.
How to deal with?
Treatment for a swollen belly may vary depending on the cause that is causing the symptom to occur. Therefore, only a qualified specialist can recommend an ideal medicine.
However, regardless of the cause that is giving rise to the bloated belly, it is recommended that measures be taken such as avoiding eating foods with a lot of salt or ready-made seasonings, reducing the consumption of milk, pasta and bread in general and avoiding using refined sugars.
Tips on how to avoid a bloated belly
- Maintain a healthy diet – To avoid suffering from a bloated belly, it is important to consume foods rich in fiber and that facilitate digestion, such as vegetables, cooked vegetables, oats, seeds and nuts;
- Practice physical exercise – In addition to diet, there are some exercises that also help to get rid of swelling. So, check out: Exercises at home – The best ones and how to perform them to get results;
- Take probiotics – To reduce the formation of gas and, therefore, reduce a bloated belly, it is important to consume probiotics, whether in capsule, powder or even food, such as natural yogurt.
When to see a doctor?
Medical help should be sought when the following symptoms occur:
- The swollen belly doesn't go away after a while and only gets worse;
- When swelling occurs with other symptoms, such as bleeding, yellowish skin and severe pain;
- Abdomen sensitive to touch;
- High fever;
- Diarrhea;
- Lack of appetite or pain when eating food.
So, what did you think of our article? Take the opportunity to also check out: Foods that regulate the intestines – What they are and their benefits.
Sources: Your health, Your health 2, My health, My life.
