Swollen Belly: Know the Possible Causes of the Problem

It is essential to feel good daily. Of course, a nuisance, such as a headache or body pain, may or may not occur for a variety of reasons; but any symptom that persists for a long time, or recurs frequently, should be investigated.

Noting that the belly is swollen, for example, should not be ignored either, as this may be one of the symptoms of some disease or health problem.

In the case of women, often the swollen belly is soon associated with menstruation. This is because, according to Eduardo Grecco, gastroenterologist at Hospital Leforte, in the menstrual period there is even greater fluid retention, leading to this symptom.

But as the swelling tends to disappear naturally with the end of menstruation, the symptom is not usually a concern. However, if the discomfort is great in these situations, a tip is to have a diuretic tea, such as green tea.

On the other hand, there are cases where the swollen belly comes from a poor diet or even an intolerance to certain types of food. Therefore, if you have suffered from this problem, it is worth knowing below some factors that may be causing this symptom. But it is worth mentioning that only a doctor can diagnose what is your case and indicate the best type of treatment.

Intestinal gases

Many people, as soon as they notice a slightly (or very) swollen belly, associate the symptom with intestinal gas. This is because this can be considered a "common" problem.

"Generally, they are associated with irregular and unbalanced eating," explains gastroenterologist Eduardo Grecco.

Also according to the doctor, so that intestinal gases do not occur, certain foods should be avoided. Are they:

• Milk and sour cream. And the situation is even worse in lactose intolerant.
• Some vegetables such as watercress, chard, garlic, onion, broccoli, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, sweet potato, ginger, green corn, cucumber, turnip, radish, bell pepper and black pepper.
• Legumes such as peas, beans, lentils, chickpeas, soy.
• Some fruits, such as banana nanica, cashew, persimmon, avocado, guava, apple, jackfruit, jabuticaba, melon.
• Very greasy cheese.
• Sweets such as guava, marmalade, chocolates. ? Sugar is fermentative and leaves residues ?, highlights Eduardo Grecco.
• Carbonated drinks, coffee and very sweet drinks.
• Some carbohydrates such as breads with crumbs, Panettone, home-made bread (where there is a lot of yeast), croissant, stuffed cookies, sprinkles.
• Fatty meat such as flank steak, lamb, ribs, muscle, pork and veal.
• Cold and inlaid.

The gastroenterologist Grecco adds that a high-fat diet, in addition to the increased formation of gases, could end up generating a picture of obesity and the famous? Love handles? lateral.

Lactose intolerance

Another point to be considered is that milks and derivatives cause, in some people, inflammatory processes in the body, due to lactose and milk proteins (casein and betalactoglobulin). This causes bloating, gastric discomfort and excess gas. When milk is eliminated from the menu, these symptoms disappear.

However, milk and milk products should only be eliminated from the menu if this is a medical recommendation. And for people who are really lactose intolerant, the diet should be worked out by a professional.

Gluten intolerance

Gluten is a protein that can cause inflammation in some people, which results in joint pain, gastrointestinal problems, headaches, malaise and bloating. In general, these symptoms are experienced by people who have gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

The removal of the substance from the menu of these people eliminates the symptoms, but, as in the case of lactose, it is worth remembering that the elimination of gluten should only happen with the help of a nutritionist or after medical advice.

Can swollen belly be a sign of pregnancy?

If the belly starts to get more swollen from the navel down and menstruation is delayed a few days ago, the two associated factors can be a sign of pregnancy. This way, the best way is to get tested and / or consult your trusted doctor as soon as possible to receive all the necessary advice.

When to seek medical help?

It is noteworthy that all these cases mentioned above are just possibilities, because, taking into account a single symptom? in case the belly swollen? It is impossible to diagnose a health problem or an illness.

Gastroenterologist Grecco points out that in some cases, bloating in the belly may even be a sign of a more serious health problem. "Therefore, whenever the person feels that something is out of the ordinary, they should seek medical attention so that they can be evaluated with greater criteria," he concludes.

Now you know that, while the bloating in the belly apparently only causes minor discomfort, the case should be evaluated, especially if other symptoms are associated with it.

If you notice that your belly is often swollen, do not hesitate to seek a gastroenterologist or gastrosurgeon. After all, health is no joke!

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