Name of the Condition

• Abdominal distension (gaseous)
• Also known as bloating or flatulence

Summary

Abdominal distension (gaseous) refers to a condition where the abdomen feels uncomfortably full and tight due to the accumulation of excessive gas in the digestive tract. This can cause noticeable swelling and pain, often accompanied by a feeling of pressure.

Causes

• Overeating or consuming carbonated beverages
• Swallowing air while eating or drinking
• Certain foods that produce gas (e.g., beans, lentils, carbonated drinks)
• Lactose intolerance or other food intolerances
• Digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

Risk Factors

• Diet high in gas-producing foods
• Rapid eating or talking while eating
• Use of artificial sweeteners
• Stress and anxiety
• Certain medical conditions like IBS or celiac disease

Symptoms

• Swelling of the abdomen
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Excessive flatulence
• Belching
• Feeling of pressure in the abdomen

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Patient history and symptom discussion
• Dietary evaluation
• In some cases, imaging studies or tests for food intolerances

Treatment Options

• Dietary modifications (e.g., reducing intake of gaseous foods)
• Medications to reduce gas (e.g., simethicone, antacids)
• Probiotics to improve gut flora
• Addressing underlying conditions like IBS with specific treatments

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Generally, the condition is manageable with lifestyle modifications and treatment.
• Regular follow-ups may be necessary to monitor symptoms and adjust treatments.

Complications

• If left untreated, chronic abdominal distension can lead to severe discomfort or exacerbate underlying conditions like IBS.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Avoid carbonated drinks and foods known to cause gas.
• Practice mindful eating to reduce air swallowing.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or severe abdominal pain
• Significant changes in bowel habits
• Unintended weight loss
• Presence of blood in stool

Additional Resources

• American Gastroenterological Association: gastro.org
• International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) - iffgd.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies the type of abdominal distension as gaseous.
• Be aware of any underlying conditions that may require additional coding.
• Double-check for any related symptoms or complications that should be coded.