What Causes Abdominal Swelling And Difficulty In Breathing?

Posted on Wed, 10 Aug 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 Answered on

Wed, 31 Aug 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : my abdomen is swollen and affecting my breathing, this has been going on for several days on and off. what could be the cau

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (49 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
need to see a doctor

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
Abdominal swelling most often comes from either an excess of fluid in the abdominal cavity or something abnormal going on in the small intestines or colon. If it is so swollen that you are having trouble breathing you really need to see a doctor right away to find out what is going on.
Fluid can build up in the abdomen if your liver or kidneys are not working properly.
Problems in the intestines or colon can be caused by infection or blockages.
It is very important for you to see a doctor as soon as possible.
If you do not have a doctor that you can see today or tomorrow you should go to Emergency tonight.
Trouble breathing can be a sign of very serious illness.
Please be seen right away.
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar