What causes abdominal bloating in people with liver disease?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Haiying
Introduction
Abdominal bloating in patients with liver disease may be caused by improper diet, intestinal flora imbalance, gas accumulation, ascites, or gastrointestinal bleeding. If patients frequently consume raw or cold foods, or overeat, food may not be properly digested and absorbed by the intestines, leading to symptoms such as abdominal bloating, vomiting, and nausea. It is advisable to eat light and easily digestible foods regularly, such as millet porridge or eight-treasure porridge.
Abdominal bloating refers to a sensation of fullness or swelling in the abdomen. In patients with liver disease, abdominal bloating may be caused by improper diet, intestinal flora imbalance, gas accumulation, ascites, or gastrointestinal bleeding. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Improper diet: If patients with liver disease frequently consume raw, cold, or excessively large amounts of food, it may lead to poor digestion and absorption in the intestines, resulting in symptoms such as bloating, vomiting, and nausea. It is advisable to eat light, easily digestible foods, such as millet porridge or eight-treasure porridge.
2. Intestinal flora imbalance: Patients with liver disease may experience disruption of gut microbiota, which can lead to abnormal intestinal function, including gas buildup and bloating. Imbalanced gut microbes may cause incomplete digestion and fermentation of food, producing excess gas. Increasing dietary intake of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help promote intestinal health.
3. Gas accumulation: Liver disease can impair normal digestive system function, leading to incomplete digestion and absorption of food in the intestines. This may result in gas buildup within the intestines, causing a bloated feeling. Avoiding gas-producing foods—such as beans, onions, coffee, and carbonated beverages—can help reduce gas formation.
4. Ascites: Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, can impair liver function, leading to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, known as ascites. Ascites can cause significant abdominal distension and discomfort. When ascites is severe or unresponsive to treatment, doctors may perform paracentesis to remove the accumulated fluid.
5. Gastrointestinal bleeding: Liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, can lead to esophageal or gastric varices (enlarged veins), which may rupture and cause internal bleeding. Accumulation of blood in the stomach or esophagus during bleeding can produce a sensation of abdominal fullness. Treatment may include hemostatic measures such as medication or interventional procedures.
If abdominal bloating persists or becomes severe, prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent worsening of the condition.
