Bloated abdomen refers to tummy (belly) distension resulting from accumulation of gases within the stomach, small or large intestine.
The belly can be also distended from accumulation of the fluid in the abdominal cavity – this is called abdominal swelling, edema or ascites.
Other causes of distended abdomen are obesity (fat accumulation), organ (usually liver or spleen) enlargement, or big abdominal tumor, like fibroma or lipoma.
A doctor can sometimes distinguish among gas, fluid or solid mass on the basis of physical examination, but often an X-ray, CT or MRI of the abdomen are needed for diagnosis.
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I’m 49 and in generally poor health with severe diabetes, high blood pressure, tachycardia, high triglycerides, plus multiple other issues. My kidney function is also down to 50%. I’ve always been large and had a bit of belly fat down near my navel. However, I look like a pregnant woman with my abdomen extended and very rigid. I’ve had swollen lymph nodes in my neck for at least the past three months according to the PA I see at the clinic (no insurance). He doesn’t act like it’s a big deal. I haven’t been ill, had a sore throat, no dental problems or any of the usual causes. The nodes are not red or tender either. I have had a lot of chest pain, bone/arthritis pain and have complained about extreme fatigue for well over a year. However, all my concerns have gone unanswered. Any ideas as to what might be causing all this? Thanks for any help.