Bukförstorning

Bukförstorning, also known as abdominal distension or abdominal enlargement, refers to an increase in the girth of the abdomen. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from harmless to serious. Common benign causes include bloating due to gas, constipation, and weight gain. The accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, a condition called ascites, can also lead to significant bukförstorning, often associated with liver disease, heart failure, or certain cancers.

Another frequent cause is the presence of a mass or tumor within the abdominal organs, such as in the ovaries, uterus, or intestines. Pregnancy is a natural and common reason for bukförstorning in women. Enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly) or liver (hepatomegaly) can also contribute to a distended abdomen. In some cases, conditions affecting the digestive system, like inflammatory bowel disease or bowel obstruction, can manifest with abdominal enlargement.

Diagnosis of the underlying cause typically involves a medical history, physical examination, and often imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI. The treatment for bukförstorning depends entirely on its cause. While simple bloating may be managed with dietary changes or over-the-counter medications, more serious conditions require specific medical or surgical interventions. Persistent or rapidly progressing bukförstorning warrants prompt medical attention to rule out severe underlying pathology.