Top 7 Causes for Abdominal Distension

Abdominal distention is common and one of the most worrisome symptoms in infants. It is important to find out the cause of abdominal distention so that it can be treated in a proper way. Here are the top 7 causes of abdominal distention in infants.

7. Gas

Excessive production of gas in the stomach and intestine is a common cause of abdominal distention in infants. It may also occur due to the swallowing of air during feeding and is usually relieved by sleeping on the abdomen. [1]

6. Hypotonia of the abdominal muscles

Abdominal distention may occur even in healthy infants without any digestive issues. It may sometimes occur due to lumbar lordosis combined with the relative hypotonia or weakness of the abdominal muscles. [2]

5. Overfeeding

Overfeeding the child or breastfeeding for a longer duration may cause abdominal distention. It is often accompanied by colic and vomiting. The child may vomit immediately after eating or after burping. If overfeeding of the baby continues, it may increase the risk of acid reflux. [3]

4. Wilms tumor

Wilms tumor is a rare cause of abdominal distention in infants. It is a type of kidney cancer that may affect one or both the kidneys. [4]
It is usually accompanied by urinary symptoms such as blood in urine and repeated urinary infections.

3. Constipation

The inability to pass stools may cause pain and distention of the abdomen in infants due to which they cry excessively while passing stools. It may occur due to the reduced intake of breastmilk. It is common in bottle-fed infants, especially when the milk formula is not diluted enough before feeding. [5]

2. Necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis is a rare illness that occurs due to the enlargement and inflammation of the colon. It can cause severe pain and colic in the abdomen along with distention. [6]

1. Abdominal infections

Infections in the stomach or intestine can cause inflammation of the lining of these organs resulting in abdominal distention. It is more common in bottle-fed infants. [7]

 Conclusion

Identifying the cause of abdominal dissection in a newborn baby can help parents to treat it in the correct way. Making appropriate changes in the feeding schedule and quantities can also help to reduce these symptoms.