Belly swelling is commonly known as bloated stomach. It is a condition in which the stomach feels full, tight, and uncomfortable because of excess gas accumulation in the digestive system.

However, persistent belly swelling could be an indication of a more serious health issue. In this article, you’ll learn about three of the major health problems that could cause belly swelling to persist.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone needed for proper functioning of the body. The thyroid hormones play a crucial role in metabolism, energy production, and digestion.

Hypothyroidism can cause several symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, and belly swelling. When there is an insufficient level of thyroid hormones, your metabolism slows down, leading to the accumulation of gas and fluids in the digestive system, which in turn causes bloating.

If you experience persistent bloating, it is advisable to get a thyroid function test done to determine if hypothyroidism is the cause of your condition.

If diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe hormonal replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and diet therapy to manage your condition and relieve symptoms.

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition that occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.

The small intestine is the part of the digestive system where most of the absorption of nutrients from food takes place. The overgrowth of bacteria interferes with the normal digestion and absorption of food. Typically, the bacteria in the colon are responsible for fermentation, which produces gas, and results in bloating.

However, in SIBO, the bacteria migrate into the small intestine leading to increased gas production and bloating.

SIBO can cause several symptoms including belly swelling, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. If you experience persistent belly swelling, it is advisable to get tested for SIBO.

The most common test for SIBO is a lactulose breath test. If diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria, probiotics to restore gut bacterial balance, and dietary changes to prevent the recurrence of the condition.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The two most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

These conditions cause several symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and persistent belly swelling. The inflammation caused by IBD interferes with normal digestion and absorption of food, leading to the accumulation of gas and fluids in the digestive system, resulting in bloating.

If you experience persistent bloating, belly swelling, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, you should consult your doctor, who can diagnose IBD through a colonoscopy, biopsy, imaging, and blood tests.

The treatment of IBD depends on the severity of the condition and can range from medication to surgery.

Conclusion

Persistent belly swelling is more than just a discomfort. It could be an indication of a more serious underlying health issue.

Hypothyroidism, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and inflammatory bowel disease are some of the health problems that can cause persistent belly swelling. The best way to manage your condition is to seek medical attention, get diagnosed, and follow the treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Additionally, making lifestyle changes, such as adhering to a healthy diet, exercising, quitting smoking, and managing stress can go a long way in managing persistent belly swelling and other associated symptoms.