Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women

Q: Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women

Dear Lulu： <br>1. <br>There are many causes of abdominal discomfort, which are often difficult to diagnose. <br>However, symptoms that physicians tend to pay more attention to include fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, belching and bloating, dry mouth, diarrhea, hematemesis,

The abdomen feels bloated, and there is discomfort when pressure is applied?

Recently, I have noticed a sudden increase in the size of my lower abdomen.
As a naturally slim woman, my abdomen used to be completely flat, but now it appears more protruded than before.
When I have a bowel movement, the amount is very small, almost negligible.
After eating, my stomach feels very bloated, and pressing on it causes discomfort.
Sometimes, when I press, I can hear a sloshing sound.
When I cross my arms over my stomach and apply pressure, it feels very tight and uncomfortable, and the area around my navel seems to be larger, also producing a sloshing sound when pressed.
Why is my lower abdomen and stomach experiencing these changes? Is it normal for my abdomen to become enlarged like this? Additionally, I have noticed that my stomach shifts with my body movements; it doesn't appear very large, but the central part of my abdomen moves.
When I lean to the left, my stomach shifts to the left, and the same happens to the right.
Leaning forward makes my abdomen appear larger, while lying down makes it look completely flat.
This phenomenon has been consistent for some time.
Is this normal?

lulu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/10

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Dear Lulu:
1.
There are many causes of abdominal discomfort, which are often difficult to diagnose.
However, symptoms that physicians tend to pay more attention to include fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, belching and bloating, dry mouth, diarrhea, hematemesis, melena, weight loss, changes in bowel habits, vaginal discharge and bleeding, frequent urination, difficulty urinating, urgency, jaundice, skin lesions, joint pain, headaches, and dizziness or weakness when standing.
Of course, special attention should be given to elderly individuals, those in early pregnancy, individuals with compromised immune systems, alcoholics, patients with cardiovascular diseases, those with significant injuries or illnesses, and recent surgical patients.
Particularly concerning are persistent pain, severe vomiting, abdominal rigidity, and involuntary abdominal stiffness.
2.
In other words, abdominal discomfort can involve the liver, gallbladder, gastrointestinal system, urinary system, female reproductive system, and even the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
3.
Your description of [having a bloated stomach that feels uncomfortable when pressed] could be normal, provided you have adequate sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and normal bowel movements; however, it may also indicate other underlying conditions.
Therefore, I recommend discussing this with your family physician or visiting a gastroenterology clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/03/10

More Info

Understanding abdominal distension, particularly in women, can be complex due to the various anatomical structures involved and the potential underlying conditions. The symptoms you've described—sudden abdominal distension, discomfort after eating, and unusual bowel habits—can be indicative of several issues that warrant further investigation.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that abdominal distension can arise from a variety of causes, including gastrointestinal, gynecological, and even psychological factors. Given your description of a previously flat abdomen becoming distended, along with discomfort and unusual bowel movements, several possibilities should be considered.

1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or food intolerances (like lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity) can lead to bloating and changes in bowel habits. IBS, in particular, is characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, which can include both diarrhea and constipation. The sensation of "water sounds" when pressing on your abdomen may suggest the presence of gas or fluid in the intestines, which is common in bloating.

2. Dietary Factors: The types of food consumed can significantly impact abdominal distension. High-fiber foods, carbonated beverages, and certain carbohydrates can lead to increased gas production. If you've recently changed your diet or increased your intake of certain foods, this could explain the bloating and discomfort.

3. Gynecological Factors: In women, abdominal distension can also be related to gynecological issues such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, or endometriosis. These conditions can cause pelvic discomfort and may lead to a feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen. Given that you mentioned a previously flat abdomen, any sudden changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

4. Fluid Retention: Conditions that lead to fluid retention, such as hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, can also cause abdominal distension. This is often accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or fullness in the abdomen.

5. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and changes in bowel habits. If you have a history of anxiety, this could be a contributing factor.

Regarding the phenomenon you described, where your abdomen appears to shift position based on body movements, this can be attributed to the natural movement of the intestines and the abdominal contents. The intestines are not rigidly fixed in place; they can shift slightly with movement, which is normal. However, if you notice significant changes in shape or size that are accompanied by pain or discomfort, it is essential to seek medical advice.

In conclusion, while some degree of abdominal distension can be normal, especially in response to dietary changes or fluid retention, the sudden onset of these symptoms, particularly if they are accompanied by discomfort or changes in bowel habits, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. A thorough examination, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies or laboratory tests, may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. It is crucial to address these concerns promptly to ensure appropriate management and to rule out any serious conditions.

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