What Is an Abdominal Lump? Causes and Symptoms Explained

Any type of swelling in the abdomen that protrudes from the abdomen is called an abdominal lump. In most cases, a soft lump forms in the abdomen, but in some cases it can also be hard, which completely depends on the internal cause of the abdomen.

What are the symptoms of an abdominal lump?

Abdominal bloating
Painful urination
Abdominal pain
Burning sensation around the lump.
Change in appetite.
Feeling like vomiting.
Chest pain.
Difficulty swallowing food.
Constipation.
Infrequent bowel movements.
Feeling of weakness or heaviness in the abdomen.
The feeling of pressure in the abdomen.
Pain when lifting weights.
Changes in urination, such as urinating more or less.
Jaundice.

Why do lumps form in the abdomen?

The possible causes of a lump or abscess in the abdomen depend on its location, and on which part of the abdomen the lump or abscess forms. If a lump or abscess is visible in the upper part of the abdomen (the belly line), it could be a skin lump or a hernia. Some of the common causes of a lump or abscess in the abdomen are given below:

Cyst:

A cyst is also called an abnormally enlarged abdominal fat that is filled with fluid, or other infected material. Sometimes a cyst is said to be the cause of the increased abdominal fat.

Hematoma:

In this condition, blood accumulates under the skin, causing a blood vessel to burst. A hematoma is usually caused by some kind of trauma.

Lipoma:

A lipoma is a type of lump or abscess that forms under the skin and is made of fat. It may feel soft, hard, or rubbery to the touch.

Inguinal hernia:

When the lining of the abdomen becomes weak at some point and the intestines or other soft tissue breaks through the weak abdominal lining and protrudes, this condition is called an inguinal hernia.

Cancer:

Some types of cancer that often cause a lump or abscess in the abdomen are:

Colon cancer.
Kidney cancer.
Liver cancer.
Stomach cancer.

How can a lump or abscess in the abdomen be prevented?

Most causes of a lump or abscess in the abdomen cannot be prevented. However, some lifestyle changes may help:
Avoid eating foods that cause acid reflux.
Avoid lifting heavy objects.
Avoid straining when defecating.
Do specific exercises to strengthen weak muscles.
Get treatment as soon as possible after getting sick to prevent coughing.
Don't smoke.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Eat light meals.