Abdominal bloating

Alternative names
Bloating

Definition
Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the abdomen feels full and tight - usually caused by excessive intestinal gas.

Common Causes

     
  • Overeating  
  • Lactose intolerance and other food intolerances  
  • Air swallowing (a nervous habit)  
  • Irritable bowel syndrome  
  • Partial bowel obstruction  
  • Constipation

Important but uncommon causes of abdominal bloating include ascites and tumors, such as those arising from ovarian cancer.

Johns Hopkins patient information

Last revised:

Diseases and Conditions Center

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All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.