Bloating, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a condition where excess gas in the stomach causes it to dilate and twist, often due to a combination of foods and negative emotions. It can lead to discomfort, interfere with nutrient processing, and even cause damage to the spleen and blood poisoning. Treatment options include medication and seeking medical help if symptoms persist.
Bloating is a health problem in which the stomach dilates due to the presence of excess gas inside the stomach chamber. In medical circles, bloating is often referred to as gastric dilatation-volvulus, or GDV. The bloated condition can occur from a number of different factors and most often experienced by humans, dogs and cattle, although other animals may also experience gastric torsion from time to time.
In many cases, bloating develops when certain factors cause the stomach to twist. This effectively creates a situation where the esophagus closes and will not allow the excess gas to escape. This means that the sufferer cannot simply burp or vomit as a means of clearing gas from the gastric tract. The release of gas through the intestines is also sometimes blocked. In severe cases, the condition can lead to what is known as a double twist, where there are two twists instead of one effectively blocking the gas from escaping.
Stomach torsion directly impacts the digestive tract or volvulus, preventing the tract from functioning properly. As the pressure in the stomach builds, the tissue expands, causing great discomfort. The tension created by bloating can have both physical and emotional ramifications, as the condition can make sleep impossible and also interfere with the processing of nutrients from the food that is ingested. If left unchecked, the swelling can eventually cause damage to the spleen and possibly lead to blood poisoning.
There are several reasons why the condition develops. A combination of foods, or even one food, can trigger the stomach to twist around the digestive tract. Emotions can also play a role, as negative emotions can impact stomach function. Stress can often be a factor, especially when combined with the intake of foods that tend to create a lot of gas in the system.
Fortunately, there are a number of treatments that can relax the stomach muscles and release volvulus. Once this happens, the trapped gas can escape and the distended stomach will return to normal. For humans, there are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help with swelling. However, if the sufferer does not seem to respond to these drugs within a day or two, medical help should be sought quickly.
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