Differential Diagnosis for Abdominal Bloating
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is often the most common cause of abdominal bloating due to its high prevalence and the fact that bloating is one of its key symptoms, along with abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Functional Dyspepsia: Characterized by upper abdominal discomfort or bloating, this condition is common and can significantly affect quality of life.
- Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): This condition occurs when there is an abnormal increase in the bacteria that inhabit the small intestine, leading to bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements.
- Lactose Intolerance: The inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products, can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming lactose-containing foods.
- Food Intolerances (e.g., Fructose, Gluten): Similar to lactose intolerance, some individuals may experience bloating and other gastrointestinal symptoms due to difficulties in digesting certain types of food.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ovarian Cancer: Although less common, ovarian cancer can present with abdominal bloating, especially if the cancer causes ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen). Early detection is crucial for treatment outcomes.
- Gastric Cancer: Abdominal bloating can be a symptom of gastric cancer, particularly in its later stages. It's essential to consider this diagnosis, especially in individuals with risk factors or those of certain ethnic backgrounds.
- Intestinal Obstruction: A mechanical blockage of the intestine can cause severe abdominal bloating, pain, and vomiting. This is a medical emergency requiring prompt intervention.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause bloating along with other symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal pain.
Rare Diagnoses
- Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, causing bloating, diarrhea, and malabsorption of nutrients.
- Gastroparesis: A condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, leading to bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
- Abdominal Wall Hernias: Although not typically considered a cause of bloating, large hernias can cause discomfort and a feeling of bloating due to the protrusion of abdominal contents through the abdominal wall.
- Malabsorptive Conditions (e.g., Pancreatic Insufficiency): Conditions that impair the body's ability to absorb nutrients from food can lead to bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits.