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Abdominal ultrasound

Abdominal bloating

Definition

Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the abdomen feels full and tight. It is usually caused by gas in the bowel.

Alternative Names

Bloating

Causes

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

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

Review Date: 10/18/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA.Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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