Definition of Abdominal bloating:

Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the abdomen (belly) feels full and tight. The abdomen may be visibly swollen (distended).

Common Causes:

Common causes include:

• Air swallowing (a nervous habit)
• Constipation
• Gastroesophageal reflux
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Lactose intolerance and other food intolerances
• Overeating
• Small bowel bacterial overgrowth
• Weight gain

The diabetes medication acarbose, as well as any medicine containing lactulose or sorbitol, may cause bloating.

More serious disorders that may cause bloating are:

• Ascites and tumors
• Celiac disease
• Dumping syndrome
• Ovarian cancer
• When the pancreas is not able to produce enzymes to help digestion (pancreatic insufficiency)