"Becomes distended" refers to the process or condition in which a particular object, body part, or area of the body expands or swells beyond its normal size or capacity. The term is often used to describe the enlargement, stretching, or bloating of certain anatomical structures or substances.
Distention commonly occurs due to the accumulation of fluid, gas, or any other substance that causes the affected area to visibly swell or become abnormally large. This expansion can result in discomfort, pain, or a sensation of fullness. It can affect various parts of the body, including the abdomen, stomach, intestines, blood vessels, urinary bladder, or any other hollow organ.
The causes of distension can vary widely. It may be a natural or physiological response to certain bodily processes, such as digestion or menstruation. However, it can also be an indication of an underlying medical condition or pathology, such as fluid retention, intestinal obstruction, gastrointestinal disorder, hormonal imbalance, or organ dysfunction.
The distention can occur gradually or suddenly, and its severity can range from mild to severe. The affected area may appear visibly swollen, rounded, or bloated. Additionally, distension may be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, tenderness, cramping, decreased urine output, changes in bowel movements, or difficulty breathing, depending on the underlying cause.
Medical professionals often evaluate the nature and extent of distension through physical examination, diagnostic tests, and medical history. Treatment options typically aim to address the underlying cause and alleviate symptoms, and may involve medication, dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, or, in more severe cases, surgical interventions.
