Doctors Note Logo

Published on: 7/4/2025

What are the common causes of increased abdominal girth?

Increased abdominal girth can be caused by bloating, gas, and other digestive issues. In some cases, it can be a sign of more serious conditions, especially in young children.

answer background

Explanation

Increased abdominal girth, or a growing belly size, can happen for many reasons. It is often due to bloating and gas, which are common digestive issues. These can make the stomach feel full and stretched.

Common Causes:

  • Bloating and Gas: This can occur when the stomach or intestines fill with air or gas, causing the belly to expand.
  • Rectal Distension: When the rectum is stretched, it can also cause the abdomen to look larger.

In Children:

For toddlers, an increasing belly size can sometimes be a sign of something more serious. It is important to check with a doctor if a child’s abdomen is growing quickly or if they show other symptoms, like pain or not wanting to eat.

Understanding the reasons behind an increasing abdominal size can help in managing the symptoms and knowing when to seek medical advice. If there are concerns, especially in young children, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about symptoms

Bloated stomach

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.