Abdominal distension means your stomach looks or feels bigger than usual. It's not just bloating-your belly may stretch from gas, fluid, or pressure inside. This swelling can feel tight or full and may be visible.
People with abdominal distension often notice:
This condition has many possible causes:
At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, we combine expert diagnostics with personalized treatment plans to address your abdominal distension and digestive health needs. Our compassionate team offers on-site testing, clear explanations, and long-term support to help you find lasting relief. Ready to feel better? Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a more comfortable, healthier you.
We've successfully treated more than 381 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Abdominal distension refers to an observable or palpable enlargement of the abdomen, often caused by excess gas, fluid accumulation, or increased pressure within the digestive tract. It can signal underlying digestive disorders, infections, inflammation, or other medical concerns.
Bloating describes the subjective feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen, whereas distension is the objective increase in abdominal size that can be seen or measured.
The ICD-10 code for abdominal distension is R14.0, which clinicians and insurers use for documentation and billing purposes.
Yes. Turner syndrome and other genetic conditions can slow gastrointestinal motility or affect organ development, leading to gas buildup and abdominal distension in some patients.
Typical causes include overeating, high-salt diets, carbonated drinks, air swallowing, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, fluid overload (ascites), and food intolerances like lactose or gluten sensitivity.
After surgery, treatment often involves gentle movement, small frequent meals, tailored medications to stimulate gut motility, and monitoring to prevent complications.
Yes. In infants, distension is often due to swallowed air, gas, colic, or formula intolerance. Gentle tummy massages and formula adjustments can provide relief.
Consult a gastroenterologist if swelling persists longer than a few days, is accompanied by severe pain, vomiting, weight loss, or difficulty breathing or eating.
Most cases are benign and resolve with diet or lifestyle changes. However, sudden severe distension, intense pain, or other alarming symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.
Yes. Strategies like eating smaller meals, reducing salt and carbonated beverages, choosing low-FODMAP foods, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly can significantly improve symptoms.
