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Ezquerra-Durán A, Barba E. Management of abdominal bloating and distension, from subjective to objective. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2024; 116:461-464. [PMID: 38989882 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2024.10482/2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Abdominal distension is a clinical occurrence that involves a measurable, objective increase in abdominal circumference, which patients report as feeling like pregnant or like having a balloon inside the abdomen. This sign is often preceded by a subjective feeling of abdominal heaviness or bloating, reported as the sensation of having a huge amount of gas trapped inside. These manifestations are highly prevalent and may reflect on their own a gut-brain axis condition, such as functional abdominal distension, or be part of other disorders such as functional dyspepsia or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The prevalence of abdominal distension and bloating is 3.5 %. However, when associated with other gut-brain axis disorders such as dyspepsia or IBS, prevalence grows above 50 %. The etiology and pathophysiology of abdominal bloating and distension are highly complex and represent a challenge for both the practitioner and the patient. The patient often associates these sensations with trapped gas, and attributes them to some food intolerance, hence he/she adopts a highly restrictive diet that fails to resolve distension while incurring the risk of nutritional deficiencies or secondary dysbiosis, making a directed treatment guideline necessary.
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Barba E, Livovsky DM, Accarino A, Azpiroz F. Thoracoabdominal Wall Motion-Guided Biofeedback Treatment of Abdominal Distention: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Gastroenterology 2024; 167:538-546.e1. [PMID: 38467383 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Abdominal distention results from abdominophrenic dyssynergia (ie, diaphragmatic contraction and abdominal wall relaxation) in patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction. This study aimed to validate a simple biofeedback procedure, guided by abdominothoracic wall motion, for treating abdominal distention. METHODS In this randomized, parallel, placebo-controlled trial, 42 consecutive patients (36 women and 6 men; ages 17-64 years) with meal-triggered visible abdominal distention were recruited. Recordings of abdominal and thoracic wall motion were obtained using inductance plethysmography via adaptable belts. The signal was shown to patients in the biofeedback group, who were taught to mobilize the diaphragm. In contrast, the signal was not shown to the patients in the placebo group, who were given a placebo capsule. Three sessions were performed over a 4-week intervention period, with instructions to perform exercises (biofeedback group) or to take placebo 3 times per day (control group) at home. Outcomes were assessed through response to an offending meal (changes in abdominothoracic electromyographic activity and girth) and clinical symptoms measured using daily scales for 7 days. RESULTS Patients in the biofeedback group (n = 19) learned to correct abdominophrenic dyssynergia triggered by the offending meal (intercostal activity decreased by a mean ± SE of 82% ± 10%, anterior wall activity increased by a mean ± SE of 97% ± 6%, and increase in girth was a mean ± SE of 108% ± 4% smaller) and experienced improved clinical symptoms (abdominal distention scores decreased by a mean ± SE of 66% ± 5%). These effects were not observed in the placebo group (all, P < .002). CONCLUSIONS Abdominothoracic wall movements serve as an effective biofeedback signal for correcting abdominophrenic dyssynergia and abdominal distention in patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction. ClincialTrials.gov, Number: NCT04043208.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Barba
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Neurogastroenterology and Motility Unit, Gastroenterology Department, Institut Clínic de Malalties Digestives i Metabòliques, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dan M Livovsky
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Digestive Diseases Institute, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Anna Accarino
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Azpiroz
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
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Moshiree B, Drossman D, Shaukat A. AGA Clinical Practice Update on Evaluation and Management of Belching, Abdominal Bloating, and Distention: Expert Review. Gastroenterology 2023; 165:791-800.e3. [PMID: 37452811 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
DESCRIPTION Belching, bloating, and abdominal distention are all highly prevalent gastrointestinal symptoms and account for some of the most common reasons for patient visits to outpatient gastroenterology practices. These symptoms are often debilitating, affecting patients' quality of life, and contributing to work absenteeism. Belching and bloating differ in their pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management, and there is limited evidence available for their various treatments. Therefore, the purpose of this American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Clinical Practice Update is to provide best practice advice based on both controlled trials and observational data for clinicians covering clinical features, diagnostics, and management considerations that include dietary, gut-directed behavioral, and drug therapies. METHODS This Expert Review was commissioned and approved by the AGA Institute Clinical Practice Updates Committee and the AGA Governing Board to provide timely guidance on a topic of high clinical importance to the AGA membership, and underwent internal peer review by the Clinical Practice Updates Committee and external peer review through standard procedures of Gastroenterology. These best practice advice statements were drawn from a review of the published literature based on clinical trials, the more robust observational studies, and from expert opinion. Because systematic reviews were not performed, these best practice advice statements do not carry formal ratings regarding the quality of evidence or strength of the presented considerations. Best Practice Advice Statements BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: Clinical history and physical examination findings and impedance pH monitoring can help to differentiate between gastric and supragastric belching. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: Treatment options for supragastric belching may include brain-gut behavioral therapies, either separately or in combination, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, diaphragmatic breathing, speech therapy, and central neuromodulators. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: Rome IV criteria should be used to diagnose primary abdominal bloating and distention. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: Carbohydrate enzyme deficiencies may be ruled out with dietary restriction and/or breath testing. In a small subset of at-risk patients, small bowel aspiration and glucose- or lactulose-based hydrogen breath testing may be used to evaluate for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: Serologic testing may rule out celiac disease in patients with bloating and, if serologies are positive, a small bowel biopsy should be done to confirm the diagnosis. A gastroenterology dietitian should be part of the multidisciplinary approach to care for patients with celiac disease and nonceliac gluten sensitivity. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: Abdominal imaging and upper endoscopy should be ordered in patients with alarm features, recent worsening symptoms, or an abnormal physical examination only. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Gastric emptying studies should not be ordered routinely for bloating and distention, but may be considered if nausea and vomiting are present. Whole gut motility and radiopaque transit studies should not be ordered unless other additional and treatment-refractory lower gastrointestinal symptoms exist to warrant testing for neuromyopathic disorders. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: In patients with abdominal bloating and distention thought to be related to constipation or difficult evacuation, anorectal physiology testing is suggested to rule out a pelvic floor disorder. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: When dietary modifications are needed (eg, low-fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols diet), a gastroenterology dietitian should preferably monitor treatment. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: Probiotics should not be used to treat abdominal bloating and distention. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 11: Biofeedback therapy may be effective for bloating and distention when a pelvic floor disorder is identified. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 12: Central neuromodulators (eg, antidepressants) are used to treat bloating and abdominal distention by reducing visceral hypersensitivity, raising sensation threshold, and improving psychological comorbidities. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 13: Medications used to treat constipation should be considered for treating bloating if constipation symptoms are present. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 14: Psychological therapies, such as hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other brain-gut behavior therapies may be used to treat patients with bloating and distention. BEST PRACTICE 15: Diaphragmatic breathing and central neuromodulators are used to treat abdominophrenic dyssynergia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baha Moshiree
- Atrium Health, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Wake Forest Medical University, Charlotte, North Carolina.
| | - Douglas Drossman
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Rome Foundation, Raleigh, North Carolina; Drossman Gastroenterology, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Aasma Shaukat
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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Barba E, Livovsky DM, Relea L, Alcalá-Gonzalez LG, Quiroga S, Accarino A, Azpiroz F. Evaluation of abdominal gas by plain abdominal radiographs. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2023; 35:e14485. [PMID: 36194191 PMCID: PMC10078561 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our aim was to determine the reliability of plain abdominal radiographs for the evaluation of abdominal gas content in patients with functional digestive symptoms. METHODS Abdominal CT scan scout views, mimicking a conventional plain abdominal radiograph, were obtained from 30 patients both during episodes of abdominal distension and basal conditions. Physicians (n = 50) were instructed to rate the estimated volume of gas in the 60 images presented in random sequence using a scale graded from 0 to ≥600 ml. KEY RESULTS The gas volumes estimated in the scout views differed from those measured by CT by a median of 90 (95% CI 70-102) ml, and the misestimation was not related to the absolute volume in the image. The accuracy of the observers, measured by their mean misestimation, was not related to their specialty or the training status (misestimation by 96 (95% CI 85-104) ml in staff vs 78 (70-106) ml in residents; p = 0.297). The accuracy was independent of the order of presentation of the images. Gas volume measured by CT in the images obtained during episodes of abdominal distension differed by a median of 39 (95% CI 29-66) ml from those during basal conditions, and this difference was misestimated by a median of 107 (95% CI 94-119) ml. The accuracy of these estimations was not related to the absolute gas volumes (R = -0.352; p < 0.001) or the magnitude of the differences. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Plain abdominal radiographs have limited value for the evaluation of abdominal gas volume in patients with functional gut disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Barba
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Dan M Livovsky
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Lucia Relea
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis G Alcalá-Gonzalez
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Sergio Quiroga
- Radiology Department, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Accarino
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Fernando Azpiroz
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
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Barba E, Burri E, Quiroga S, Accarino A, Azpiroz F. Visible abdominal distension in functional gut disorders: Objective evaluation. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2023; 35:e14466. [PMID: 36153798 PMCID: PMC10078557 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Visible abdominal distension has been attributed to: (A) distorted perception, (B) intestinal gas accumulation, or (C) abdominophrenic dyssynergia (diaphragmatic push and anterior wall relaxation). METHODS A pool of consecutive patients with functional gut disorders and visible abdominal distension included in previous studies (n = 139) was analyzed. Patients (61 functional bloating, 74 constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome and 4 with alternating bowel habit) were evaluated twice, under basal conditions and during a self-reported episode of visible abdominal distension; static abdominal CT images were taken in 104 patients, and dynamic EMG recordings of the abdominal walls in 76, with diaphragmatic activity valid for analysis in 35. KEY RESULTS (A) Objective evidence of abdominal distension was obtained by tape measure (increase in girth in 138 of 139 patients), by CT imaging (increased abdominal perimeter in 96 of 104 patients) and by abdominal EMG (reduced activity, i.e., relaxation, in 73 of 76 patients). (B) Intestinal gas volume was within ±300 ml from the basal value in 99 patients, and above in 5 patients, who nevertheless exhibited a diaphragmatic descent. (C) Diaphragmatic contraction was detected in 34 of 35 patients by EMG (increased activity) and in 82 of 103 patients by CT (diaphragmatic descent). CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES In most patients complaining of episodes of visible abdominal distention: (A) the subjective claim is substantiated by objective evidence; (B) an increase in intestinal gas does not justify visible abdominal distention; (C) abdominophrenic dyssynergia is consistently evidenced by dynamic EMG recording, but static CT imaging has less sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Barba
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Clínic, Spain, Barcelona
| | - Emanuel Burri
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,University Medical Clinic, Cantonal Hospital, Liestal, Switzerland
| | - Sergio Quiroga
- Radiology Department, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Accarino
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Fernando Azpiroz
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd); Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
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Abdominophrenic Dyssynergia: A Narrative Review. Am J Gastroenterol 2023; 118:41-45. [PMID: 36191283 PMCID: PMC9810002 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Chronic bloating and abdominal distension are common and highly bothersome gastrointestinal symptoms. Although the differential diagnoses for bloating and distension are broad, these symptoms are frequently associated with disorders of the gut-brain interaction. Functional abdominal bloating may be a result of visceral hypersensitivity, whereas abdominal distension seems to be a somatic behavioral response associated with abdominophrenic dyssynergia, featuring diaphragmatic contraction and abdominal wall relaxation. We review the available literature regarding abdominophrenic dyssynergia and comment on its epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and avenues to address in the near future.
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A Pragmatic Approach to the Evaluation and Treatment of Abdominal Bloating. Am J Gastroenterol 2022; 117:701-705. [PMID: 35103019 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Serra J. Management of bloating. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2022; 34:e14333. [PMID: 35143108 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Abdominal bloating is a subjective sensation of trapped abdominal gas, producing abdominal pressure, fullness sensation, and, in some patients, associated objective abdominal distension. In this month's edition of the journal, a new validated questionnaire to assess the prevalence and impact of gas-related symptoms is presented by Duracinsky et al., showing that gas-related abdominal symptoms are prevalent in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and have a measurable impact on patients daily life. A parallel study by Gardiner et al. assessing the severity of bloating in functional gastrointestinal disorders shows that severe bloating is associated with the severity of abdominal pain, constipation, and somatization, advancing our understanding of the clinical characteristics and relevance of gas-related symptoms in the broad spectrum of functional gastrointestinal disorders. Management of bloating includes non-pharmacological and pharmacological strategies. Dietary interventions to reduce intestinal fermentation and ingestion of food supplements like prebiotics or probiotics can reduce bloating by reducing gas production. The main targets of pharmacological treatments are to improve transit and evacuation with prokinetics, to improve intestinal gas tolerance with antispasmodics and/or neuromodulators, and to modify intestinal microbiota with antibiotics. Secretagogues act by increasing intestinal secretion and decreasing visceral sensitivity and have been reported to be an effective treatment alternative for patients with bloating associated with constipation. Biofeedback therapy addressed to correct abdomino-phrenic dysynergia may be useful for patients with objective abdominal distension, and patients with bloating associated with outlet obstructed defecation may benefit from anorectal biofeedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Serra
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebrón, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
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Nelson AD, Black CJ, Houghton LA, Lugo-Fagundo NS, Lacy BE, Ford AC. Systematic review and network meta-analysis: efficacy of licensed drugs for abdominal bloating in irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2021; 54:98-108. [PMID: 34114657 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although bloating is a highly prevalent and troublesome symptom in irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), treatment is empirical with no specific guidelines for its management. AIM To conduct a pairwise and network meta-analysis, using a frequentist approach, of Food and Drug Administration-licensed drugs for IBS-C comparing their efficacy for abdominal bloating as a specific endpoint. METHODS We searched the medical literature through December 2020 to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in IBS-C, with abdominal bloating reported as a dichotomous assessment. Efficacy of each drug was reported as a pooled relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to summarise effect of each comparison tested. Treatments were ranked according to their P-score. RESULTS We identified 13 eligible RCTs, containing 10 091 patients. Linaclotide 290 µg o.d., lubiprostone 8 µg b.d., tenapanor 50 mg b.d. and tegaserod 6 mg b.d. were all superior to placebo for abdominal bloating in patients with IBS-C, in both pairwise and the network meta-analyses. Linaclotide demonstrated the greatest improvement in abdominal bloating in both pairwise and network meta-analysis (RR of failure to achieve an improvement in abdominal bloating = 0.78; 95% CI 0.74-0.83, number needed to treat = 7, P-score 0.97). Indirect comparison revealed no significant differences between individual drugs. CONCLUSIONS We found all licensed drugs for IBS-C to be superior to placebo for abdominal bloating. Linaclotide appeared to be the most efficacious at relieving abdominal bloating. Further research is needed to assess long-term efficacy of these agents and to better understand the precise mechanism of improving bloating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred D Nelson
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Christopher J Black
- Leeds Gastroenterology Institute, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Lesley A Houghton
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Brian E Lacy
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Alexander C Ford
- Leeds Gastroenterology Institute, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Livovsky DM, Azpiroz F. Gastrointestinal Contributions to the Postprandial Experience. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13030893. [PMID: 33801924 PMCID: PMC7998507 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Food ingestion induces homeostatic sensations (satiety, fullness) with a hedonic dimension (satisfaction, changes in mood) that characterize the postprandial experience. Both types of sensation are secondary to intraluminal stimuli produced by the food itself, as well as to the activity of the digestive tract. Postprandial sensations also depend on the nutrient composition of the meal and on colonic fermentation of non-absorbed residues. Gastrointestinal function and the sensitivity of the digestive tract, i.e., perception of gut stimuli, are determined by inherent individual factors, e.g., sex, and can be modulated by different conditioning mechanisms. This narrative review examines the factors that determine perception of digestive stimuli and the postprandial experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan M. Livovsky
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain;
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9103102, Israel
- ShaareZedek Medical Center, Digestive Diseases Institute, Jerusalem 9103102, Israel
| | - Fernando Azpiroz
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-2746259
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Livovsky DM, Barber C, Barba E, Accarino A, Azpiroz F. Abdominothoracic Postural Tone Influences the Sensations Induced by Meal Ingestion. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020658. [PMID: 33670508 PMCID: PMC7922384 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Postprandial objective abdominal distention is frequently associated with a subjective sensation of abdominal bloating, but the relation between both complaints is unknown. While the bloating sensation has a visceral origin, abdominal distention is a behavioral somatic response, involving contraction and descent of the diaphragm with protrusion of the anterior abdominal wall. Our aim was to determine whether abdominal distention influences digestive sensations. In 16 healthy women we investigated the effect of intentional abdominal distention on experimentally induced bloating sensation (by a meal overload). Participants were first taught to produce diaphragmatic contraction and visible abdominal distention. After a meal overload, sensations of bloating (0 to 10) and digestive well-being (-5 to + 5) were measured during 30-s. maneuvers alternating diaphragmatic contraction and diaphragmatic relaxation. Compared to diaphragmatic relaxation, diaphragmatic contraction was associated with diaphragmatic descent (by 21 + 3 mm; p < 0.001), objective abdominal distension (32 + 5 mm girth increase; p = 0.001), more intense sensation of bloating (7.3 + 0.4 vs. 8.0 + 0.4 score; p = 0.010) and lower digestive well-being (-0.9 + 0.5 vs. -1.9 + 0.5 score; p = 0.028). These results indicate that somatic postural tone underlying abdominal distention worsens the perception of visceral sensations (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04691882).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan M. Livovsky
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (D.M.L.); (C.B.); (A.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Digestive Diseases Institute, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem 9103401, Israel
| | - Claudia Barber
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (D.M.L.); (C.B.); (A.A.)
| | - Elizabeth Barba
- Neurogastroenterology Motility Unit, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Anna Accarino
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (D.M.L.); (C.B.); (A.A.)
| | - Fernando Azpiroz
- Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Departament de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (D.M.L.); (C.B.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-274-6259
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Lacy BE, Cangemi D, Vazquez-Roque M. Management of Chronic Abdominal Distension and Bloating. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 19:219-231.e1. [PMID: 32246999 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2020.03.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Abdominal bloating and distension are 2 of the most commonly reported gastrointestinal symptoms. Abdominal bloating is characterized by symptoms of trapped gas, abdominal pressure, and fullness. Abdominal distension is defined as a measurable increase in abdominal girth. These symptoms frequently co-exist, although they can occur separately. Defined by Rome IV criteria, functional abdominal bloating and distension commonly coincide with other functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, and functional constipation. Abdominal bloating and distension can develop for multiple reasons, including food intolerances, a previous infection that perturbed the intestinal microbiota, disordered visceral sensation, delayed intestinal transit, or an abnormal viscero-somatic reflux. Treatment can be challenging to patients and providers-no regimen has been consistently successful. Successful treatment involves identifying the etiology, assessing severity, educating and reassuring patients, and setting expectations. Therapeutic options include dietary changes, probiotics, antibiotics, prokinetic agents, antispasmodics, neuromodulators, and biofeedback. We review the epidemiology and effects of chronic bloating and distension and pathophysiology, discuss appropriate diagnostic strategies, and assess available treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian E Lacy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida.
| | - David Cangemi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Maria Vazquez-Roque
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
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Barba E, Sánchez B, Burri E, Accarino A, Monclus E, Navazo I, Guarner F, Margolles A, Azpiroz F. Abdominal distension after eating lettuce: The role of intestinal gas evaluated in vitro and by abdominal CT imaging. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2019; 31:e13703. [PMID: 31402544 PMCID: PMC6899808 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.13703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some patients complain that eating lettuce, gives them gas and abdominal distention. Our aim was to determine to what extent the patients' assertion is sustained by evidence. METHODS An in vitro study measured the amount of gas produced during the process of fermentation by a preparation of human colonic microbiota (n = 3) of predigested lettuce, as compared to beans, a high gas-releasing substrate, to meat, a low gas-releasing substrate, and to a nutrient-free negative control. A clinical study in patients complaining of abdominal distention after eating lettuce (n = 12) measured the amount of intestinal gas and the morphometric configuration of the abdominal cavity in abdominal CT scans during an episode of lettuce-induced distension as compared to basal conditions. KEY RESULTS Gas production by microbiota fermentation of lettuce in vitro was similar to that of meat (P = .44), lower than that of beans (by 78 ± 15%; P < .001) and higher than with the nutrient-free control (by 25 ± 19%; P = .05). Patients complaining of abdominal distension after eating lettuce exhibited an increase in girth (35 ± 3 mm larger than basal; P < .001) without significant increase in colonic gas content (39 ± 4 mL increase; P = .071); abdominal distension was related to a descent of the diaphragm (by 7 ± 3 mm; P = .027) with redistribution of normal abdominal contents. CONCLUSION AND INFERENCES Lettuce is a low gas-releasing substrate for microbiota fermentation and lettuce-induced abdominal distension is produced by an uncoordinated activity of the abdominal walls. Correction of the somatic response might be more effective than the current dietary restriction strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Barba
- Digestive System Research UnitUniversity Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd)BarcelonaSpain
- Departament de MedicinaUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
| | - Borja Sánchez
- Departamento de Microbiología y BioquímicaInstituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias (IPLA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Asturias (CSIC)VillaviciosaSpain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias–ISPAOviedoSpain
| | | | - Anna Accarino
- Digestive System Research UnitUniversity Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd)BarcelonaSpain
- Departament de MedicinaUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
| | - Eva Monclus
- Departamento de Lenguajes y Sistemas InformáticosUniversidad Politécnica de CatalunyaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Isabel Navazo
- Departamento de Lenguajes y Sistemas InformáticosUniversidad Politécnica de CatalunyaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Francisco Guarner
- Digestive System Research UnitUniversity Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd)BarcelonaSpain
- Departament de MedicinaUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
| | - Abelardo Margolles
- Departamento de Microbiología y BioquímicaInstituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias (IPLA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Asturias (CSIC)VillaviciosaSpain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias–ISPAOviedoSpain
| | - Fernando Azpiroz
- Digestive System Research UnitUniversity Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd)BarcelonaSpain
- Departament de MedicinaUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
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Abstract
Most clinicians will agree that chronic constipation is characterized by abnormal bowel movement consistency and/or frequency plus or minus evacuation symptoms, but patient perception of constipation varies widely and includes symptoms that may or may not meet official defining criteria. Although intermittent constipation is extremely common, only a small minority of patients seek care for their symptoms. Among these patients, dissatisfaction with the currently available laxative options is not uncommon, and many patients will require specialized care for severe or refractory symptoms-especially those with abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome overlap, bloating or distention, and psychological comorbidities. This review outlines a physiological assessment of the patient with refractory constipation, exploring treatment options among patients with slow transit, rectal evacuation disorders, and normal transit. In addition, we explore nonlaxative approaches to normal-transit patients bothered by ongoing symptoms, with an emphasis on the biopsychosocial model of functional gastrointestinal disease and treatment of visceral hypersensitivity using neuromodulators. Finally, we propose a comprehensive evaluation algorithm for the management of patients with refractory slow-transit constipation considering surgery and examine surgical options including colectomy and cecostomy using an antegrade continent enema.
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