Gas is produced in the digestive track after taking in food. Gas also is deposited inside our body from time to time and releases from the body as we breathe and break wind. However, if the production and release of gas inside the human body cannot maintain a balance, there is too much gas inside the body, thus causing a distended abdomen.

■ Psychological factors

Aerophagia or autonomic nerve system dysfunction may develop. The abdominal distention and pain of the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which becomes more common these days are the typical symptoms.

■ Gas inside intestines

Abnormal fermentation takes place in the intestinal flora when the amount of pathogenic bacteria increases, and the amount of gas also increases. Also, gas production also increases after taking in too much fiber and sugary food because of mal-absorption or changes in the intestinal flora.

When the digestive track movement weakens, gas deposited in the intestines will be difficult to release, thus causing abdominal distension. It is a cause of constipation and IBS.
Feces and gas inside the intestines are also difficult to release when the intestinal track is constricted. When it is intestinal mucosal inflammation or circulation dysfunction, gas will be absorbed by the body but cannot be released via breathing, thus forming abdominal distension.