What it means
The sense that the belly is full or stretched, often from gas, and sometimes with visible swelling (distension). It is common with constipation, swallowing air, some foods, lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome and before periods. It may also go with more serious problems, such as bowel obstruction or fluid in the abdomen.
For the nurse
Ask about bowel movements, passing gas, diet and timing. Walking can help move gas. Report bloating with vomiting, severe pain or no bowel movement or gas.
At a glance
| Spanish | hinchazón abdominal |
|---|---|
| Also written | bloated |
Related terms
constipation
Bowel movements that happen less often than usual, with hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass.
irritable bowel syndrome
A long-term bowel condition with belly pain and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation or both.
obstruction
A blockage in a passage of the body, such as an airway, the bowel, a blood vessel or a tube.
ileus
A slowing or stopping of the normal movement of the intestines, with nothing physically blocking them.