Persistent Abdominal Distension
Age: 19, Weight: 42 kg, Height: 158 cm Lately, I've been experiencing persistent abdominal swelling, and I'm at a loss about the cause. It’s strange that after consuming just a small sandwich, a few pieces of candy, and a 300ml cup of coffee, my stomach appears excessively distended. Does anyone have insights into what might be happening? Additionally, I often struggle with constipation, although I did manage to have a bowel movement today, yet I still feel extremely bloated despite having eaten very little. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 4:20:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing persistent abdominal swelling and bloating, which can be uncomfortable and concerning, especially given your recent dietary changes and issues with constipation. Let's break this down and look at potential causes and what you can do about it.
Main Points:
- Abdominal distension can arise from various factors, including diet, gastrointestinal motility issues, and other underlying conditions.
- Addressing dietary habits and managing constipation can help alleviate symptoms.
Explanation: Abdominal distension often occurs when the gastrointestinal tract becomes filled with air, fluid, or other substances. In your case, it seems that even small amounts of food are causing significant bloating, which might suggest sensitivity to certain foods, poor digestion, or excessive gas production. The constipation you mentioned could also contribute to this issue, as it can affect how the digestive system functions.
Next Steps:
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Dietary Changes:
- Identify Triggers: Keep a food diary for at least a week to track what you eat and note any increases in bloating. Common culprits include dairy, gluten, carbonated drinks, certain vegetables (like beans and cabbage), and sugar substitutes.
- Eat Smaller Meals: Instead of large meals, opt for smaller, more frequent meals to reduce bloating and give your digestive system time to process food.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help with digestion and alleviate constipation.
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Manage Constipation:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Incorporate more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet, gradually increasing to avoid bloating.
- Physical Activity: Regular movement can help stimulate bowel function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of your bloating and bowel habits over the next few weeks. Note any repeated patterns or changes that occur after certain foods or activities.
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Consider Probiotics: If you haven’t already, consider including probiotic-rich foods (like yogurt, kefir, or fermented foods) or over-the-counter probiotics, which may help improve gut health.
If your symptoms persist despite these changes or worsen (e.g., severe pain, changes in bowel habits, or any additional symptoms like weight loss), please consider seeking guidance from a healthcare provider to explore other causes.
Remember, you're not alone in dealing with this, and there are steps you can take to feel better. Let me know if you have further questions or need more assistance!
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