An enlarged stomach is a stomach which is larger than normal. There are a number of reasons why the stomach should be enlarged. It is important to distinguish between enlargement of the stomach and abdominal bloating. Bloating can involve the stomach, but it may also involve the intestines and it can be caused by things like ascites. If an enlarged stomach or bloated abdomen is causing distress, medical attention should be sought, as it may be a symptom of an underlying medical problem.

The stomach is a highly elastic organ which is designed to expand and contract naturally. Some enlargement of the stomach can be observed when it is full, for example. However, if the stomach remains persistently enlarged, it is a sign that there is a problem. One cause of stomach enlargement can be an impairment with gastric emptying, such as that caused by an obstruction. In this case, the stomach cannot empty its contents into the intestines. The stomach contents may calcify if the problem persists and the patient usually feels very uncomfortable and may develop nausea and vomiting.

Ulcers and chronic irritation can also sometimes lead to an enlarged stomach. Sometimes thickening of the stomach wall in response to irritation causes enlargement, and people may also experience delayed emptying of the stomach because of inflammation. A number of disease processes can be linked with an enlarged stomach and testing is usually necessary to find out why the patient's stomach is enlarged.

People can also develop gastric distension, in which the stomach is filled with gas. This commonly happens because of air swallowing or as a result of a medical procedure which introduces air into the stomach. Sometimes gas in the stomach also causes distention. This can be dangerous because there is a risk that the stomach contents will end up in the lungs. Recommended treatment involves turning the patient on his or her side and gently pressing the stomach to encourage the gas to vent.

Sometimes a fetal ultrasound reveals an enlarged stomach. This is not necessarily a cause for concern, but it is noted as a finding because the ultrasound technician or doctor wants to take note of anything which differs from normal fetal development. If a doctor says that a developing fetus has an enlarged stomach, the parents should ask about the implications of that diagnosis and whether or not additional testing should be pursued to learn more. It's important to remember that fetal development can be naturally variable, and something “abnormal” is not necessarily something wrong.