Bloating

Alternative names
Abdominal 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: December 6, 2012
by Simon D. Mitin, M.D.

Medical Encyclopedia

  A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | 0-9

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.