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As people age, their digestive system slows down, a fact that can contribute significantly to gastrointestinal issues. Understanding what causes a distended stomach in the elderly is crucial for identifying potential health problems and ensuring proper care.
According to research, age-related changes to the digestive system, such as slower motility and decreased enzyme production, make gastrointestinal issues like a distended belly in older men more common. While often benign, this symptom can sometimes indicate a more significant health concern.
Bloating and abdominal distention are a common, yet often overlooked, symptom in older adults, affecting a significant portion of the senior population. It can be caused by simple digestive changes or, in more serious cases, be a warning sign of an underlying medical condition. Understanding **what causes a swollen belly in the elderly** is crucial for proper care and peace of mind.
According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, visceral fat—the dangerous fat deep within the abdomen—can increase over 200% in men between the ages of 25 and 65. This shift, combined with other age-related and health factors, is why many older men get swollen bellies, leading to significant health concerns.
